CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A Cape Coral teen was arrested Thursday evening after making threats of a mass shooting via Lee Connect’s virtual Zoom classrooms.
The teen has been identified as a 14-year old Island Coast High School student.
The school has since released a statement to parents stating,
“We took immediate action and turned the matter over to law enforcement…we will discipline to the fullest extent per the Student Code of Conduct, ” said Principal Michelle Cort-Mora.
The student was arrested and charged with making threats of a mass shooting.
“When they break the law and its a felony then we’re going to apply the statute. If you break the law you break the law, ” said Master Sergeant Patrick O'Grady, Cape Coral Police Department.
The Cape Coral Police Department and The District is now partnering to prevent future incidents like this one.
“We’re going to work with the Lee County school board and sinch up security, ” said O'Grady.
Cape Coral police are sending a message that any student caught making threats through virtual learning will face serious consequences.
“ We are hoping that actually seeing the arrest that was made will be a deterrent, and again using this as an educational tool that’s perfect, ” said O'Grady.
Fox 4 spoke to a parent today at Island Coast High School who says unfortunately he has to have tuff conversations with his sons each year on how to prepare for potential tragedy.
“I teach my son every day on every precaution so if something happens he is more than mentally trained for it. ”
After detective interviews, the teen admitted he did not plan to carry out the threats, and only sent the messages because he thought they were funny.
The parent says he hopes the student gets the help he needs and learns from this mistake.
“He could have just been looking for attention, I don’t know what his personal life is at home. ”
The school says they are continuing to work on ensuring the safety and security of its students and staff as it is their highest priority.
