Police charge Brantford boy for threats against high school on social media

A 13-year-old Brantford boy has been arrested by police in response to disturbing messages written on social media suggesting violence against people at a high school.
The Brantford Police Service’s major crime unit began an investigation on Tuesday, Dec. 12 after being alerted to the message which mentioned North Park Collegiate and Vocational School and threats of violence against specific people at the school. The message, posted to an Instagram account, was shared by some on Facebook and suggested an incident would take place in January.
High school resource officers and detectives continued their investigation on Wednesday and spoke with students connected to the threats and who had information about the social media post.
At around 10:40 a.m., a 13-year-old male was arrested at the high school on North Park Street for threatening.
“The Brantford Police Service does not take these sorts of communications which include threatening content as juvenile-type pranks,” said Const. Natalie Laing. “The safety and security of the community is paramount.”
“The BPS continues their investigation working closely with and appreciates the full cooperation from the principal and the staff at North Park Collegiate as well as the Grand Erie (District) School Board during this investigation.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Sgt. Gary Swift of the major crime unit at 519-756-0113, ext. 2274.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477, 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at http://www.crimestoppers-brant.ca.