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Nanaimo RCMP investigating second case of threats against a school

Apr 13, 2017 | 4:16 PM

NANAIMO — For the second time in a week, Nanaimo RCMP are investigating an incident involving threats being made against a school.

RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW the Mounties were quickly brought in to handle the situation on Wednesday, April 12 and there’s no risk to the school, students or staff.

After talking to the parent of the 16-year-old student and taking a statement from him directly, O’Brien said they have not made an arrest.

“Based on what this person posted and the fact it was quite disturbing and directed at a school, we are preparing a report and presenting it to our Crown Counsel for review for charges,” he said.

A similar incident happened on Tuesday, April 11, where an 18-year-old student was arrested after directing threats at a school.

O’Brien said the two cases aren’t linked in any way and having such similar incidents in such close proximity to one another is rare.

“It’s probably a great opportunity for parents to engage with their youth and have an open and frank discussion on what they’re posting and the consequences of what these posts can do.”

Due to the presumed anonymity of the posts and the shock value involved, O’Brien said directing threats online is appealing to some youth.

“Those are all wrong, because the images will last forever and they have to be made aware that the consequences of what they post can have direct impacts on their life,” he said.

With a criminal record, crossing the Canadian border or applying for any position within the government can become seriously difficult.

 

island-news@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nanaimonewsnow