Third Student In Joliet Arrested In Connection To School Threats

A 12-year-old male was arrested and released to a parent with a referral to the River Valley Justice Center for Felony Disorderly Conduct – Transmitting a Threat of Destruction of School Property or Violence, Death or Bodily Harm Against Persons at School.

On September 16, 2024, at 3:41 p.m., the Joliet Police Department was notified about a possible threat that had been posted to Instagram by an unknown source. The context of the social media threat indicated possible harm to students at local schools. It was determined that this same Instagram had been shared numerous times.

While addressing other recent social media threats toward Joliet area schools, Joliet Police Detectives immediately initiated an investigation into the origins of this Instagram post. As this investigation progressed, Detectives identified the 12-year-old male as a suspect. The male was located at a relative’s home, and he indicated his involvement in authoring the post as a prank. The 12-year-old male was placed into custody without incident and released to a family member with a referral to the River Valley Justice Center. Detectives searched the male’s belongings as well as his bedroom at his residence at a different location and no weapons or other contraband were located. It is believed that the male was a student at Dirksen Junior High.

The Joliet Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our schools. We take all threats made on social media very seriously and will hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Recently, we have seen an increase in social media threats directed at our schools, and we want to remind everyone that such actions carry real consequences. Additional Officers will be deployed this week to patrol Joliet area schools and their vicinities.

We continue to work closely with our educational partners on a daily basis to maintain a safe learning environment for all students. Our collaboration with local schools is crucial in identifying and addressing any potential threats swiftly and effectively. The safety of our community is our top priority, and we will not tolerate any behavior that jeopardizes it. We urge everyone to think carefully before posting any threatening content online. Lastly, we again wish to thank the public for their assistance in these investigations. Residents are urged to report suspicious activity by calling 911 or our non-emergency line at 815-726-2491.