CLAY COUNTY, Fla — A 13-year-old Lake Asbury Junior High student is facing charges after making threats to "go on a purge killing spree" following a breakup with his ex-girlfriend, the Clay County Sheriff's Office announced Monday.
Investigators said the eighth-grader sent multiple text messages on Sunday indicating a desire to harm his ex-girlfriend and her friends. The student admitted to sending the messages but claimed he didn't mean them, and was just upset over a breakup.
CCSO conducted a full investigation due to the detailed nature of the threats, where the student included specific intent, victims and "harbored a perceived grievance."
Investigators searched the student's home, interviewed all the parties involved and seized the student's cellphone.
As a result of the investigation, the student was arrested on a second-degree felony charge of written or electronic threats to kill, do bodily harm, or conduct a mass shooting or act of terrorism.
He was transferred to the Department of Juvenile Justice - Duval Detention Center.
"We take every single tip received very seriously, and a thorough investigation is conducted. I have zero tolerance for school threats," said Sheriff Michelle Cook. "Parents, please speak with your children about the consequences of making such statements. I want to thank those who came forward with this information and encourage anyone who sees or hears anything suspicious to report it immediately."