Student, 13, Charged In School Threats: Hamden Police

HAMDEN, CT — A Hamden Middle School student has been arrested in connection with the online threats that closed Hamden High School for several days and led to a “lockout” at the middle school, according to police.

The threats were made on Instagram and reported promptly to police and school officials, according to Detective Sean J. Dolan.

The 13-year-old boy has been charged with first-degree threatening and second-degree breach of peace. He is scheduled to appear at New Haven Superior Court for Juvenile Matters on Dec. 20.

Dolan said Detective Shawn Nutcher of the Major Crimes Unit was “instrumental in identifying the responsible party for the threats.”

“I hope this development provides a measure of relief and helps to increase confidence in our school's safety, and the safety of our teachers, students, and support staff,” Mayor Lauren Garrett said in a statement. “This has been a trying time for our community. I would urge that we continue to provide mental and emotional support to all those in need. Additionally, I would like to commend the HPD for their steadfast efforts throughout this daunting ordeal, as they maintained a watchful presence over our schools.”

Hamden High School reopened Wednesday after being closed since Friday due to multiple threats made against the school. Hamden Middle School was placed in a lockout on Tuesday morning due to a threat.

“I want to thank our police department for its continued partnership in keeping our schools safe and secure places for learning,” Superintendent Jody Ian Goeler said. “I am grateful their thorough investigation led to an arrest. The district will follow all appropriate protocols related to discipline for this threat and disruption to our school community.”

See also: Metal Detectors To Be Implemented At Hamden High School