14-Year-Old Penns Manor Area Student Facing Felony Charges After Fake Bomb Threat

The Charges

A 14-year-old student at Penns Manor Area Junior/Senior High School is facing felony charges after allegedly making a fake bomb threat on Monday, October 3, 2023.

The threat was made in the form of a note that was found in a school bathroom. The note stated that there was a bomb in the school and that it would explode at 1:00 p.m.

The school was immediately evacuated and the Indiana County Sheriff's Office was called to investigate. After searching the school, no bomb was found.

The Investigation

The investigation into the threat led to the identification of the 14-year-old student as the suspect.

The student was taken into custody and charged with terroristic threats, a felony of the third degree.

The student was arraigned before Magisterial District Judge Christopher Welch and released on $10,000 unsecured bail.

The School's Response

The Penns Manor Area School District released a statement saying that they are "deeply concerned about this incident."

The statement said that the school district is "committed to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all students" and that they are "working with law enforcement to investigate this incident and ensure that appropriate action is taken."

The Legal Implications

Terroristic threats are a serious crime under Pennsylvania law.

A person who is convicted of making a terroristic threat can face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

In addition, the student may also face disciplinary action from the school district, including suspension or expulsion.