Student Accused Of Making Verbal Threats At West Hills High

SANTEE, CA — An investigation was continuing Tuesday into verbal threats allegedly made by a West Hills High School student and heard by a classmate, who alerted school staff.

The 15-year-old student allegedly made a "remark referencing a possible act of violence" that was heard by other students in class around 10:30 a.m. Monday, according to a San Diego County Sheriff's Department statement released late Tuesday morning.

Lt. Chris Steffen said school administrators were made aware of the remark – the nature of which was not disclosed – about 4:45 p.m. and contacted the sheriff's department.

"At this time there is no threat to school safety," the sheriff's statement says.

The 15-year-old student was not arrested, according to Steffan, who said a report will be submitted to the District Attorney's Office to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.

In a letter sent Monday night to WHHS parents, principal Robin Ballarin wrote: "Earlier this evening, school administration and the Sheriff's Department were made aware of a concerning student remark referencing a possible act of violence. This was swiftly and effectively dealt with by law enforcement. There is no concern at this time."

"We thank the student and parent that communicated with us regarding this concern and want to encourage you to continue to do so in whatever way is comfortable for you," Ballarin wrote. "We want to assure all in our school community of our unwavering commitment to safety and our immediate, thorough, and proactive response. We are grateful to our students, staff, faculty and parents who continue to alert and inform us when any information is of concern."

– City News Service