The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office immediately began an investigation on Thursday and found text messages from 12-year old Matthew Smith indicating he planned to bring a knife and/or gun to Shoal River Middle School because two students were continually bullying him over various issues, OCSO officials said in a news release.
When deputies talked to Smith, he admitted he sent the texts and had thoughts of harming others. Smith is now charged with making a written or electronic threat of a mass shooting.
Sheriff Eric Aden praised the bravery of the friend who came forward to tell a family member about the contents of the conversation so it could be reported to authorities and prevent the possibility of violence.
“His actions are a prime example of how the concept of ‘See Something, Say Something’ can work to keep our schools and communities safer,” Aden said.
Statement from Superintendent Marcus Chambers:
“The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office notified the Okaloosa County School District of a text message threat made against two students. Upon receiving this report, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Okaloosa County School District immediately launched an investigation. The student responsible for the threats has been taken into custody.
“The Okaloosa County School District enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for any threats against students, staff, or school campuses. Whether real, false, or perceived, all violations of the District’s Student Code of Conduct are treated with the utmost seriousness. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and security of our students and staff, which remains our top priority. We take all threats seriously and will not tolerate actions that compromise the security and well-being of our students, staff, and school communities.
“I encourage parents to speak with their children about the gravity of threats and the importance of taking them seriously. By having these critical conversations at home, you play a key role in helping us maintain a safe and secure learning environment.”
