AMARILLO POLICE DEPARTMENT
MEDIA/PUBLIC RELEASE
DATE: September 20, 2024
INCIDENT TYPE: Terroristic Threats/ False Alarm/Reports
OFFICER SUBMITTING RELEASE: Sgt. Oscar Garcia-Juvenile Investigation Unit; Sgt. Carla Burr-PIO
DETAILS:
In September, members of the Amarillo Police Department Juvenile Unit, SRO’s, Amarillo ISD PD, Canyon ISD, and respective school districts have investigated over 30 various social media threats, false alarm reports, and terroristic threat reports directed to area schools. Most of these reports were found to be false but some were intentionally posted on social media and shared to cause panic in our community and schools. There were also statements made by students to get a reaction or draw attention. All threats made towards any school, students or staff is taking very seriously. As a result of these threats and investigations, the APD Juvenile Unit has arrested 9 juveniles from multiple campuses for the charges of Terroristic Threat and False Alarm/Report. The Amarillo Police Department and partner agencies will continue to be proactive in keeping our schools and community safe. We would like to thank the public, students, school district personnel who have been so helpful in assisting in these investigations as well as reporting any threats made towards the schools. And please remember, if you see something, say something.
