Press Release:

High School faculty, S.R.O’s, and deputies of the Sequatchie County Sheriff’s Office responded quickly to threats of violence made against our High School. Due to everyone’s actions, the threat was quickly eliminated, and there was never any danger on or near the school campus. This investigation has resulted in the arrest of a juvenile and involves bordering jurisdiction. The Sheriff’s Office is not the lead agency investigating the case due to jurisdictional issues; therefore, we cannot elaborate on the case. However, we want everyone to know there is no danger to our students or faculty relative to this incident. Some still believe the threat is active and that tomorrow, Friday, September 13, 2024, is the date stated in the threat. Again, we want all to be aware that this threat has been evaluated and eliminated. The Sequatchie County Sheriff’s Office and the Dunlap P.D. will have added presence and extra patrols at the schools to ensure the safety of all our children and, hopefully, to help ease the minds of all our students, parents, and staff.

“The safety of our children, as well as the staff who care for them in our schools, has always been and will continue to be the ‘top priority for us as well as our law enforcement partners,” stated Sheriff Bill Phillips. “Any threat of harm will always be taken seriously regardless of the intent of the person making the threat. We also are grateful for the wonderful staff within our school system who work so diligently to help us ensure the safety of our children.”

Director of Schools Sarai Pierce added, “Upon learning of the text message that was sent to some friends, the Sheriff’s Department immediately started an investigation. The student was at home and hasn’t been on campus since the message was sent. There was no real intention of harm. This student is now dealing with the result of using reckless words. We can’t comment on student discipline because of the nature of pending charges. We greatly appreciate the cooperation of the Sheriff’s Department and their swift response. The Sheriff and his deputies never hesitate to help the schools. We will continue to work jointly and take all threats seriously.”