Knox County Sheriff’s Office investigated a possible threat that was made at the Oceanside Middle School in Thomaston at approximately 3:30 p.m, Feb. 27.   

Administrators at the school spoke with deputies regarding a juvenile in the school who had threatened another student, apparently saying that when he arrived at school the next day, he was going to “shoot it up,” according to a news release from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.

Another student apparently overheard the conversation, tried to intervene and the student threatened him, as well, telling him not say anything or he would harm him.  

Sgt. John Palmer and Deputy Paul Spear interviewed witnesses and the suspect juvenile.  After a brief interview with the suspect and his father, the juvenile was charged with Class D Misdemeanor, Terrorizing, and a Class C Felony, Tampering with a Witness.  

Through the investigation, it was determined that the suspect juvenile has no means to carry out the threat and that he stated he was “just trash talking,” according to a news release from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.

He also now realizes he shouldn’t have said it, according to Sgt. Palmer. 

“We do not believe there is any more threat concerning this incident,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

“Unfortunately, it is a troubling time concerning school safety and the horrific actions that have been carried out in this country,” the S.O. continued. “The Knox County Sheriff’s Office always tries to assure the safety of all people of Knox County and encourages anyone to not only, ‘see something, say something,’ but if you hear something, say something.”

“I give credit to the young student that spoke up and told someone about this potential threat,” said Chief Deputy Tim Carroll. “The Sheriff’s Office will investigate all people’s concerns and will appropriately pursue legal action if necessary. These types of occurrences will be dealt with seriously to continue to assure that safety for all.”