CROZET (WINA) – Albemarle County police responded early this (Friday) morning to a social media threat for Western Albemarle High School that was found to be not credible. Police say they know the juvenile responsible, who will be charged with “threats of death or bodily injury to persons on school property”… a Class 6 felony.

An Albemarle Police release says they take all threats on any school seriously, and will continue to work with the school system, parents, students, teachers, and staff to keep everyone safe.

According to the ACPD release:

“ACPD would like to take this opportunity to encourage families to review the following online and social media safety tips. Read them, discuss them with your students, and reach out with any questions or concerns.

Monitor your child’s phone, computer, and online accounts regularly.
Your child should not have a phone, computer, or online account that you do not have access to.
Have a conversation with your child about the use of their phone during school.
Phones at school should only be used in an emergency and should otherwise remain in a backpack or pocket.
In the event that a student sees a threat on social media, text, or an internet site, they should immediately notify a school administrator and the police.
ACPD will work with the school to develop a plan of action.
At no point should anyone share it with friends or post it online.
Young people believe that there is a certain amount of anonymity online and with certain internet-based apps. While this is somewhat true, the internet and apps that use the internet are not completely private.
Some may think that school threats are funny, but the community and police do not. Those who make these posts will be held accountable and there will be criminal consequences.”