On March 8, 2017 at approximately 5:45PM, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office was contacted regarding a concerning statement made by a middle school student at Big Hollow Middle School.
Members of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office School Safety Team, Criminal Investigations Division, and sheriff’s deputies immediately responded to investigate, due to the comments involving a school. The investigation began after the school day on Wednesday and concluded prior to the start of school on Thursday, March 9th. Detectives and members of the School Safety Team worked with Big Hollow Middle School officials and determined the statement was made by a 13 year-old boy.
Detectives located the boy at his home. The investigation revealed the boy made comments during school hours indicating he was considering causing harm to a group of classmates and teachers. These comments were overheard by another student at the school, who reported them to a parent.
Following the in-depth investigation, the boy was transported to a local hospital for a mental health evaluation. The investigation revealed there was no immediate threat to school students or staff.
As a precaution, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office increased patrols at Big Hollow Middle School, to ensure students and staff were aware they are safe.
The facts of the investigation will be reviewed with the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office to determine if charges will be filed against the boy.