WCSD Police Adapt to Increase in School Shooting Threats

In recent years, school safety has become an increasing concern, with social media platforms playing a major role in the spread of threats, particularly those related to school shootings.

The anonymity, wide accessibility, and real-time communication provided by platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and others have made them prime avenues for harmful behavior. As a result, educators, law enforcement, and parents are facing growing challenges in addressing and preventing these threats, which have surged in both frequency and severity.

The Washoe County School District has seen a rise in arrests related to school threats during the 2023-2024 school year.

"We’ve made three arrests this year for separate incidents, and the school year isn’t even over. Last year, we had only two," said Tracy Moore, chief of police for the Washoe County School District.

In October, two students under 15 in Washoe County were arrested for making terroristic threats on social media platforms, including Instagram and Snapchat.

These arrests come amid a troubling trend reported nationwide. According to *The New York Times* and *Campus Safety Magazine*, school shooting threats surged after the deadly Appalachia school shooting outside Atlanta, Georgia. The attack left four people dead, and 14-year-old suspect Colton Gray, along with his father, was arrested.

The national attention generated by this case has led to a significant increase in threats across the country, with dozens of school districts reporting similar incidents.

Moore acknowledged the growing trend, stressing the importance of vigilance in preventing violence.

"We collaborate with the FBI and social media platforms to track down students behind these threats. Many of these threats are made on Sundays, and we often receive anonymous tips that help us intervene before Monday morning," Moore said.

The issue of school shootings and threats has also become a focal point for political leaders. Vice President-elect JD Vance and opposition Governor Tim Walz debated the topic during their recent vice presidential debate, discussing law enforcement’s role and gun safety measures in response to the increasing concern over school violence.

The Washoe County School District is taking proactive steps to address the problem, although there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The district has implemented measures such as education and awareness programs, enhanced monitoring, and anonymous reporting systems like Safe Voice, which has been key in identifying suspects.

Due to Nevada’s laws protecting the privacy of minors, the district cannot disclose specific details about the consequences students face. However, Officer Moore explained that students arrested for such threats are often referred to support programs designed to help them understand the legal and emotional impacts of their actions.