UPDATE: Lawrence Supt. Katie Webb announced just after noon that the lockdown has been lifted and school is back to normal at Louisa Middle. The case is still under investigation.
UPDATE: Lawrence County Middle School on lockdown today
LMS leaders were notified at 9:00am of a written note on a bathroom wall. Out of abundance of caution LMS was immediately placed on modified class lockdown. Law enforcement are at LMS and conducting an investigation. All students are safe and law enforcement will remain at LMS
School Threats
Ashland, Ky. (September 12, 2024) –Kentucky State Police Post 14 Troopers and Detectives have been assisting with recent school threats in the Post 14 area. In addition, KSP has been working with local School Resource Officers, Police Departments, and Sheriff’s Offices with their investigations when requested.
Kentucky State Police thoroughly investigates all reported threats of school violence regardless of context or intent. KSP collaborates with local law enforcement officers and school administration personnel to provide a safe environment for students to focus on furthering their education while in school.
Troopers urge parents to have a conversation with their children about the dangers and consequences of posting threatening messages on social media or online. Troopers also ask parents to speak with their children about reporting any concerning information they may come across on social media or online to an adult. Additionally, ensuring that any information reported is accurate and truthful is crucial, as false reports can lead to unnecessary fear and confusion. However, KSP emphasizes that this should not discourage anyone from reporting potential crimes or threats.
According to the Kentucky Revised Statute, threats of violence directed toward a school are Terroristic Threatening 1st Degree, which is a Class C Felony. Furthermore, a Class C Felony is a serious crime that can carry a punishment of up to 5 to 10 years in prison.