Lakeville Police Arrest Juvenile After Online Threats Target Two Lakeville Schools
LAKEVILLE, MINNESOTA - The Lakeville Police Department announced this morning in a press release that they had taken a juvenile into custody following online threats of violence directed toward two schools in the district.
According to police, multiple reports were submitted to the district’s anonymous reporting system on Thursday, September 4, shortly after 5:00 p.m. The reports alerted both Lakeville Area Schools staff and law enforcement to a threatening post on social media that mentioned Lakeville South High School and McGuire Middle School.
Rapid Investigation and Arrest
Lakeville Police detectives quickly identified a suspect, described as a juvenile male. Working in partnership with the Elk River Police Department, officers made contact at the suspect’s residence. Shortly before 9:00 p.m., the juvenile was taken into custody and transported to the Dakota County Juvenile Services Center, where he is being held on charges of Threats of Violence.
School and Police Officials Respond
Superintendent Michael Baumann praised the students who stepped forward through the district’s reporting system:
“Because of their report we were able to quickly take action. As always, if you see something, say something, do something. We appreciate our community's partnership in keeping our schools safe.”
Lakeville Police Chief Brad Paulson emphasized that threats against schools will be met with immediate and serious action:
“The longstanding partnership between our agency and Lakeville Area Schools allowed for a swift and diligent response to this threat. Any type of threat to those in our educational settings will be taken seriously, investigated thoroughly and we will do everything in our reach to hold those responsible fully accountable.”
Ongoing Commitment to Safety
Police said they continue to work closely with the district to ensure the safety of students, staff, and families. Authorities also stressed the importance of community vigilance and encouraged continued use of the district’s anonymous reporting system.
Written By: Will Wight
