Female student arrested in connection with school threat

By Doug Spoon, Editor

A 13-year-old female student at Hans Christensen Middle School was arrested today in connection with a threat on social media that resulted in cancellation of classes on Thursday, police said.

The girl’s name is not being released because she is a juvenile, according to a Menifee Police Department news release. Investigators responded to the school today and took the suspect into custody for penal code 422.2(a), “willfully threatening unlawful violence upon the grounds of a school.” She was booked into custody at Riverside County Juvenile Hall.

A result of the examination of several digital devices led to the identity of the student who created a social media account and posted the threat. After consultation with the District Attorney’s Office, it was determined that the evidence was sufficient for a criminal charge.

The investigation continues, including the examination of additional digital devices. If other students are found to be involved with the posting of the social media school threat, additional arrests could be made, according to the news release.

This criminal investigation is separate from the school’s administrative investigation.