Charges Pending After East Ridge High School Threats: Police

WOODBURY, MN — Students will encounter increased security at East Ridge High School Monday after police investigated two separate threats related to the school posted on social media last week.

Woodbury police worked with the FBI to examine text messages, Instagram, and Snapchat. Using computer forensics, police identified the people who created the content and located them to determine if they had the intent and means to carry out any threats.

Authorities investigated a student’s Instagram post Tuesday that made reference to school shootings.

A Snapchat post sent later in the week told students not to come to school Monday because it was going to be "shot up," the Pioneer Press reported.

In both cases, police determined "the subjects did not have the intent or the means." The mere posting of threatening messages can be against the law, however. Police say two juvenile subjects were identified and criminal charges are pending.

"The safety of our children and our schools is a top priority," authorities said. "We will have an increased presence in and around our schools to help ensure a safe environment as students return to school on Monday."

Woodbury police are encouraging parents to talk with their children about responsible use of social media:

Liking, sharing, and commenting on threatening social media posts can cause additional fear and alarm regardless of the intent. Students who see such posts should immediately alert a teacher, parent, or law enforcement so we can continue to keep our schools and our city safe.

Image: Patch