Student arrested amid school threats circulating through Northern California

(FOX40.COM) — A high school student was arrested Monday in connection to posting threats of campus violence on social media, according to the Modesto Police Department .
• Video Above: Series of threats aimed at Northern California schools

In recent weeks, several law enforcement agencies and school districts reported a state and nationwide trend of threats toward school campuses. Law enforcement did not specify the type of threats made, however, FOX40.com reporters reviewed multiple social media screenshots of messages that depicted gun violence. Over 10 Northern California schools within Sacramento, Placer County, Fairfield, Yuba County, and others have been mentioned.

“Throughout the weekend, the Modesto Police Department received multiple reports of threats of violence directed towards schools in our community,” MPD said in a statement. “Most of these reports were social media based, being posted to various outlets such as TikTok, SnapChat, and Facebook. These social media posts were investigated, and although they appeared to be part of a statewide hoax or scam, the impact they had on our community was real leaving students and their families fearful and scared.”

A Modesto High School Student who posted one of the threats along with a picture of a firearm was identified, according to MPD. The student was located by school staff, arrested, and booked into the Stanislaus County Juvenile Hall on charges related to the threats.

“We take all threats of school violence seriously and will continue to investigate these threats to ensure the safety of our community,” said MPD Sgt. Jose Meza. “We want to remind everyone to think before you post to social media, even if it is a so-called prank, as you will be found and arrested.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.