Three Juveniles Arrested for Making Threats Towards the Willmar School District

Three juveniles have been arrested for making threats against the Willmar School District which led to classes being cancelled Tuesday.  Willmar Police Chief Mike Holme says after the threats were reported to police on Monday afternoon, they worked with school district officials, and after the investigation and interviews with several people, three juveniles were arrested and taken to Prairie Lakes Youth Programs.  Holme said there is no threat to school children, staff or the public and the investigation will continue.
 
Willmar Schools Superintendent Dr. Bill Adams says the investigation was launched after a note containing a threatening message was discovered at the middle school Monday, referencing specific school sites and staff members. Due to a lack of immediate information regarding the credibility of the note, the district opted to close all buildings on Tuesday to allow law enforcement the necessary time to review video evidence and conduct interviews.

Adams says school counselors and mental health practitioners will be stationed at all district buildings to provide support for students and staff following this week’s events and said the actions carry severe consequences. Willmar Public Schools will strictly enforce district disciplinary policies to the maximum extent.  He said “What may be intended as a joke can lead to serious, life-altering consequences. We urge parents to have conversations with their children about the gravity of these actions and the impact they have on our community.”
 
Willmar Public Schools extends its gratitude to district leadership, building security personnel, and the Willmar Police Department for their tireless work and collaborative response throughout the investigation