Suspect in custody after Bells Elementary receives threat of mass violence
FROM THE CROCKETT COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT:
UPDATE(02/03/25): The Crockett County Sheriff’s Department has announced that a suspect has been identified regarding the threat made toward Bells Elementary School earlier Monday.
Nicholas Swift, age 36, charged with Terrorism Hoax, Filing a False Report, and Threatening Mass Violence at a School is in custody. According to CCSD, The Bells Police Department is the lead investigative agency and District Attorney Frederick Agee will be prosecuting.
CCSD gave a very special thanks to Homeland Security Agents and the Jackson Police Department for their response and collaboration. They went on to say the safety and security of the children at school is their top priority and they will not tolerate this kind of criminal behavior at any time against kids and school staff.
Earlier story(02/03/25):
BELLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ADDRESSES THREAT
Bells, TN – On February 3, 2025, at approximately 9:00am the Bells Elementary School received a call indicating a threat that would occur in an hour. As a precautionary measure, the Bells Elementary School was put on a soft lockdown to ensure the safety of all students/staff. Bells Police Department and Crockett County Sheriff’s Department responded to begin their investigation. Tennessee Department of Homeland Security and additional agencies responded to ensure the premises were safe.
Director of School Boone Parlow stated, “The safety of all students and staff is my highest priority. BES students have had as normal of a class schedule as possible. There will continue to be a law enforcement presence at the school and we will remain on a soft lockdown for the remainder of the day. If you choose to allow your child to stay in school, we are sure they are safe. We appreciate the quick and professional response from all the law enforcement officers today – it’s comforting to know how much this community cares for students.”
This is an ongoing investigation and we will provide updates as we can.
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