‘Group fight’ threat leads to worry at DMS

Published 2:42 pm Monday, March 5, 2018

Numerous students questioned about incident by local police

Threats of a group fight at Demopolis Middle School Thursday led to concern by parents and students being questioned by local police. One student was arrested as a result.

According to information released by the Demopolis Police Department, the DPD and Demopolis City Schools received information referencing a threat of a large group of students preparing to fight off campus, but near, DMS, which prompted an investigation by law enforcement. The concern intensified as some students began referencing the fight on social media.

“Information about the fight was shared over social media by several students, which created serious concerns from parents, school officials and law enforcement,” read a statement issued by the DPD.

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The investigation on Thursday led to the arrest of a male student who was charged with making a threat that caused the disruption of school activities. The case will be handled through Marengo County Juvenile Court.

Demopolis Director of Public Safety and Police Chief Tommie Reese said he felt the situation was handled properly, both by law enforcement and the school system.

“Officials with the Demopolis City Schools acted very swiftly in contacting law enforcement to ensure that our students are safe. After an investigation by the police department we have identified and interviewed numerous students and they will be dealt with by the city school and law enforcement,” Reese said.

Reese said Friday that the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

“Law enforcement and school officials take these threats seriously and will do everything possible to ensure the safety of our schools,” Reese said.

(This article originally appeared in the Saturday, March 3 issue of the Demopolis Times.)