Instagram Post 'No Joke,' Oak Creek Police Say

OAK CREEK, WI -- Police in Oak Creek say they arrested an Oak Creek East Middle School student and advised him not to go to school on Monday related to an incident that played out on social media over the weekend.

According to Oak Creek police reports, officers learned that the student made an Instagram post on Sunday, March 31. Police told Patch that the post contained an implied threat. Reports stated that the student photographed stuffed hoodie that was set on the ground, and made to look like someone that he may have known.

Principal Sue Thompson, and Associate Principals Geoff Pontus and Steve Anderson sent a letter out to parents Monday, reassuring parents that there was no actual threat to parents, students and staff and that officers were handling the matter in an appropriate fashion. Here is what the letter said:

In an effort to keep you informed regarding the safety of the students and staff at Oak Creek East Middle School, we would like to notify you of a situation. Last night a parent reported to us that his child had made what he considered an inappropriate post on social media related to our school. The post was also reported the Oak Creek Police Department and they are presently working with the family.

We are working alongside the Oak Creek Police Department to investigate this matter. We do not believe this message is any kind of credible threat, however, we are taking all due caution and you may notice additional police presence at school as the investigation proceeds.

Thank you for continued efforts in talking with your student regarding school safety. In particular it is important they understand not to make statements intended as a “joke” that could be taken the wrong way and rain down a host of unintended consequences. We are grateful for the parent who reported something concerning. We encourage you to regularly monitor your children’s social media accounts. It is the partnership of parents/guardians, students, and staff promoting the idea of “hear something, see something, say something” that helps keep our school safe.

According to reports, officers reported talking one of the parents who was made aware of the Instagram post. Reports stated that police also talked with the author of the post, who told police that he meant for the post to be a joke and that he did not realize how serious it was.

Police said they arrested the student on suspicion of disorderly conduct with a court date of April 4 in Milwaukee County Children's Court.

Police also said the student was turned back over to his parents, and was advised to stay home from school on Monday, until the school's resource officer and staff could address the situation.