Arrest Made After Social Media Threat Toward Clear Fork High School

On January 24th, 2025 our Office received a complaint regarding a social media post concerning a threat of violence being committed at a Clear Fork School. Within an hour of receiving the complaint, our Office was able to identify, locate and subsequently arrest the person who made the threat. The offender is currently incarcerated in the Richland County Jail pending arraignment on a felony charge of Inducing Panic. Our Office worked closely with the Administration of the Clear Fork Schools along with the Bellville and Butler Police Departments to ensure the safety of the students and staff of the Clear Fork Schools pending the arrest of the offender.

Sheriff Sheldon would like to thank the Administration of the Clear Fork Schools, the Bellville Police Department and the Butler Police Department for their cooperation. Their actions, in conjunction with the dedication of his staff, aided in the successful conclusion of this event.

Below is an approved release from Clear Fork Schools Superintendent Mr. John Thomas.