LEXINGTON, N.C. — A 14-year-old student has been charged in connection to a threat made on Oct. 4 at Lexington Senior High, according to the police chief.
Police said the teen was charged with felony communicating a threat of mass violence on educational property.
Over the past week, four school threats caused classes to be disrupted at Lexington Senior High School.
Lexington City Schools said Lexington Senior High School let students out at 9:20 a.m. —not long after the school day had started on Monday.
The district didn't give the reason for the dismissal but said it was "in an abundance of caution."
A district spokesperson said, "In an abundance of caution and with an unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our students and staff, Lexington City Schools is taking specific measures for Lexington Senior High School. We aim to keep our school community well-informed about the steps we have taken to ensure their safety."
Last Thursday, Lexington Senior High operated on a two-hour delay because of a social media threat. Last Tuesday, the school dismissed early because of the same thing.
Timeline
The first was made on Oct. 3. Lexington police said they worked closely with Lexington City Schools to dismiss students in a coordinated and safe manner.
The second was made on Oct. 4. Lexington police and Lexington City Schools worked together and took precautions to keep students safe without the need for early dismissal.
Another threat was made later that same day on Oct. 4., and officers worked closely with school officials to determine the safest course of action would be to delay the school start time on Oct. 5.
On Monday, the fourth threat was made, resulting in an earlier dismissal.
Conference
Superintendent Dr. Nakia Hardy said they contact the Lexington Police Department whenever there’s a threat.
“These incidents can be distressing," Dr. Hardy shared. "Counselors are available for those who need it."
Over the past week, there have been four threats of violence, according to Lexington police chief, Robby Rummage.
A teenager was charged for a threat made on Oct. 4., according to police.
“We want to ensure that we create a safe learning environment for staff and students," Lexington Senior High Principal Potrer shared. We are committed to providing a safe learning environment for students."