A 12-year-old student from Georgetown Middle School in South Carolina has been charged after allegedly making threats to “shoot up the school” in a Snapchat post, tied to the outcome of Friday night’s boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul.
The Incident
The Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the student made the threat on Snapchat, stating it would happen if former heavyweight boxing legend Mike Tyson lost the highly anticipated bout against social media star Jake Paul.
Law enforcement officials responded swiftly, searching the student’s home on Powell Road. No firearms were found during the investigation, and the student reportedly told investigators that the post was intended as a joke.
Legal Consequences
Despite the lack of immediate danger, authorities took the threat seriously, underscoring the zero-tolerance policy for such statements, even when made in jest. The student now faces charges related to making threats against the school.
Community Reaction
Parents and members of the Georgetown community expressed concern over the incident, reflecting broader anxieties about safety in schools. Some questioned the student’s understanding of the consequences of such statements, especially in a digital era where threats spread rapidly and are scrutinized heavily.
Broader Context
This case highlights the ongoing challenges schools and law enforcement face in managing threats made on social media. Experts note that while many such posts may not represent real danger, every threat must be treated as credible until proven otherwise.
Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office reiterated its commitment to maintaining safety in schools and urged parents to educate children on the importance of responsible social media use.
