Suzette Cook
As rumors about possible arrests continue to spread on social media Thursday morning, Newberry High School Principal James Sheppard spoke out to set the record straight.
In an email to staff and faculty, Sheppard stated:
“As many of you may have heard, the police were on our campus this morning detaining some students who may have had involvement in the threats made against NHS.
“I’m sure we will all feel a sense of relief over this development but the reality is that this remains an ongoing matter.
“The police will continue their investigation and let us know if there are any more individuals involved or if there are any further steps to be taken. Additionally, I know we are saddened by the choices of these students but we must remember that there are still many, many students who require our very best both academically and emotionally as they process this information.
“If you feel any student may be experiencing any great distress, please either notify the guidance counselors or feel free to send them to the guidance office.”
Alachua County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Capt. Kaley Behl confirmed that no arrests have been made in connection with six bomb threats and a sniper threat made to Newberry schools in the past week.
A digital sign in front of NHS this morning asks for tips and announces a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the culprits.
A Wednesday bomb hoax at Gainesville High School was the 12th threat to hit Alachua County Public Schools since classes began on Aug. 10. Law enforcement and school officials have said the rash of recent threats have come at a high cost for the community.