CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A 15-year-old boy was disciplined after making threats against the students and staff of Monroe High School on Sunday.
A threat targeting the school went out Sunday night, according to the Monroe Police Department. Police teamed up with Union County Public Schools to track down the person who made the threat. As a precaution, patrols were increased at the school. There are already two permanent school resources officers assigned to that campus.
Early Monday morning, a search warrant was executed at the suspect's home. Officers told WCNC Charlotte no weapons were found during the search.
The suspect is not being identified due to his age. He will face charges through the Department of Juvenile Justice and was disciplined in accordance with Union County Public School policies.
"We are seeing a disturbing spike in threats of violence against schools across the country that are causing widespread fear and panic," Lieutenant Morgan Malone said. "Children, teachers, and staff should be able to go to school every day without fear of becoming a victim of violent acts. The safety of our schools is a top priority, and we will continue to take all threats seriously. Those responsible for threats of this nature will be criminally charged. "
This threat comes after Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools confirmed authorities are investigating threats made to several middle and high schools on Monday. Threats were also made at West Charlotte High School and Hough High School. There was also a bomb threat at Bailey Middle School in Cornelius. Detectives identified a possible suspect in connection with the Bailey and Hough threats in Texas. It's unclear if charges will be brought against that person.
UCPS has a tip line which is a way people can report something suspicious or illegal happening at its schools. Anonymous tips can also be made by calling Union County Stoppers at 704-283-5600 or on the county's free, smart phone app.
Monroe is about 30 miles southeast of Charlotte, North Carolina.