There were several social media threats against Houston-area schools again Tuesday. Police are taking quick action against the teenagers posting the threats. And they’re asking parents to do their part.
Two students are facing felony charges in Fort Bend County for allegedly making terroristic threats.
A 15-year-old boy was arrested at the Harmony Public School in Katy following a Snapchat he made at a gun range holding pistols and an AR-15, according to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office.
A 14-year-old boy was also arrested Tuesday for allegedly making a threatening Snapchat post at Needville Junior High School, deputies said.
“I’d like to ask parents out there, ‘When’s the last time you’ve actually, actually walked into your kids’ rooms, other than picking up their dirty laundry?’” Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls asked. “’Actually snooping inside their rooms, looked under their mattress to see what they’re possessing? When is the last time you opened their computer screen and did a little research to see what they’re looking at? When is the last time you actually took your son or you daughter’s cell phone to actually see what they’re doing, and who they’re chatting with?’”
Parents in other area cities may also be doing some soul-searching.
In La Porte, Two students were arrested for alleged threats against La Porte High School.
District officials say the students made separate, unrelated threats against the school. School administrators notified the La Porte Police Department who arrested the students.
A spokesman with Spring Branch Independent School District said SBISD police were investigating Wednesday after a video surfaced of a student at Stratford High School making a threat with a pistol.
The spokesman said nobody is in danger however campus security was elevated as a result of the discovery.
Sheldon ISD say a social media threat against C.E. King Middle School led to extra security precautions on campus early Tuesday.
Students who use Snapchat and other social media to convey their emotions and messages should realize a simple post could change their lives, Nehls said.
“Do you know this could affect them for the rest of their lives?” Nehls said. “I mean, a GED, are you even going to get into a decent college? Will the military even consider you? I don’t know. That’s not me. Parents need to be parents.”
There are several apps available to help parents monitor their children’s social media posts and text messages. You’ll find a list here.