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Missouri juvenile law: Teen may face charges for school threat

On Behalf of | Mar 14, 2018 | Juvenile Law

A Missouri teenager was recently contacted by law enforcement authorities after word reached police that he made a threat against his high school by using the social media app Snapchat. At this point, charges have not been filed against the young man; however, that does not mean that they won’t be. Depending on how this case plays out, the accused may require assistance from an attorney who has experience handling juvenile law cases.

According to a fairly recent news report, police in St. Louis were informed that a 17-year-old male made threats against West High via social media. Authorities promptly contacted the young man allegedly behind the threats and determined that there really was no cause for concern. He had no plan in place or the means to follow through with the threat. This does not mean he is in the clear, though.

Making threats of violence, with or without intent, is not something this state or any other takes lightly. This case has been turned over to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office who will determine if any criminal charges are to be filed against the teen. The accused has been disciplined by the school and was not immediately allowed to return. It is unclear how long he will be out of school.

This young man is not the first teenager to make threats of violence against a school in Missouri. Unfortunately, it happens more often than most people would like to think. When it does and when authorities are made aware, they will do everything in their power to help prevent tragedy — as they should. This does not mean that those accused of making such threats are not to be treated fairly in the eyes of the law. A juvenile law attorney can help teens in this same position protect themselves and their rights should any criminal charges be filed.

Source: fox2now.com, “Snapchat school threat leads police to Parkway West student“, Joe Millitzer, March 1, 2018