OKEECHOBEE -- Recently, School Resource Deputy Robert Feldman was informed of a "Threat Assessment" being conducted on a 13-year-old student at Osceola Middle School in Okeechobee.
During the assessment, the boy reported hearing the voices of Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, the perpetrators of the Columbine Shooting in 1999.
The voices in his head compelled him to repeatedly plan a shooting at his school.
The family's decision to grant Law Enforcement access to their child's phones and laptops was a responsible and proactive move that played a crucial role in quickly resolving the investigation.
Their cooperation and support in the investigation are highly appreciated and deserve immense praise.
A forensic diagnostic of electronics, along with his statements, gave deputies probable cause to arrest him for on a charge of Written or Electronic Threats To Kill or Mass Shooting, a Felony.
The child was taken into custody and transported to the D.D.J. facility in Ft. Pierce to be held until his release.
The Okeechobee County Sheriff's Office and the Okeechobee County School Board worked diligently on this matter to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
Interim Superintendent Dylan Tedders emphasized that the school has strict guidelines for this type of incident and will follow school policy.
Sheriff Stephen emphasizes the timeless proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," highlighting its significance in our current times.
Sheriff Stephen urges parents to actively engage in conversations with their children about mental health, which is becoming an increasingly critical issue among the youth.
Sheriff Stephen encourages community members to be vigilant and to promptly report any signs of struggle in individuals, so that appropriate support and assistance can be provided.
