Juvenile Arrested After Threats Targeting Lakeville Schools

Sep 5

***Lakeville South High School*** | ***FILE***

A juvenile suspect has been taken into custody after allegedly threatening violence at two Lakeville schools, officials say.

The threats targeted Lakeville South High School and McGuire Middle School and were reported just after 5 p.m. on Sept. 4 through the district’s anonymous reporting system, Lakeville Police said.

Both Lakeville Police and school officials were notified immediately and began investigating.

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According to investigators, the threats appeared in a post on social media. Detectives quickly identified a juvenile male suspect and coordinated with Elk River Police, who made contact with him at his home. Shortly before 9 p.m., the suspect was taken into custody and transported to the Dakota County Juvenile Services Center, where he is being held on charges of threats of violence.

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Lakeville Area Schools Superintendent Michael Baumann credited students who used the reporting system, saying their actions allowed police and school staff to intervene quickly. “Because of their report we were able to quickly take action. As always, if you see something, say something, do something,” Baumann said.

Lakeville Police Chief Brad Paulson said the strong working relationship between the district and law enforcement played a key role in the swift response:

“Any type of threat to those in our educational settings will be taken seriously, investigated thoroughly and we will do everything in our reach to hold those responsible fully accountable,” LPD Chief Paulson said in a written statement.

Police continue to work with district staff to ensure the safety of students, staff and families as the investigation moves forward.

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