DESOTO (1080 KRLD) - DeSoto ISD says it will have increased security inside and around DeSoto High School leading up to winter break as a result of a threat left in a bathroom this week.
The district says someone left a threat in a bathroom Tuesday, and parents say it included the names of students and teachers.
"When you see a list that says, 'kill students,' and your child's name is on that list, it's a little different," says MaCrystal Wiley, whose son is a student at DeSoto High School.
Wiley says she and her husband have decided to keep their son home.
"I let them know my son will not be back at school until this is taken care of, wrapped up and you find out what's going on or who's responsible for this," she says.
DeSoto ISD says someone took a picture of the note, and students started sharing the picture on social media. The district says it is working with DeSoto police to find the person responsible.
The district says investigators have been talking to students, reviewing social media and watching surveillance video to try to find the person who left the threat.
DeSoto ISD says students always pass through metal detectors and have their bags searched. In addition to standard measures, the district says it has assigned additional security to the high school, and DeSoto police are making additional patrols. The district says the increased security will continue up to winter break.
"It is important to note that issuing a threat-even over social media, via text message, or through an e-mail-is a federal crime (U.S. Code § 875.Interstate communications). Persons posting or sending these threats can receive up to five years in federal prison. They may also face state or local charges," the district wrote in a statement.
"DeSoto ISD takes all threats seriously and will exercise an abundance of caution to protect our students and staff from danger. Law enforcement will always be engaged in matters such as this and criminal prosecution pursued for any person suspected of making a threat against students, school personnel or property."
