September 19, 2024
Media Contacts:
Michele Bowman, MPIO
(571) 541-7757
lpd-pio@leesburgva.gov
Leesburg Police Department Charges Teen with Making Threats via Electronic Communication
Leesburg, VA (September 19, 2024) – The Leesburg Police Department has charged a juvenile with making threats via electronic communication. The charges stem from an investigation launched after a series of threatening text messages were sent to a crisis line threatening to harm students.
At approximately 12:18 a.m. on September 11, 2024, the Leesburg Police Department was alerted to the series of text messages which prompted an immediate investigation. By 12:58 a.m. that same morning, officers were able to identify and locate the juvenile responsible for sending the messages.
After further investigation and consultation with the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, it was decided to charge the juvenile with making threats via electronic communications. Due to the individual’s age, no further details regarding their identity will be released.
Chief Thea Pirnat emphasized, "False threats, whether intended as a joke or not, have real-world consequences. These types of incidents divert critical resources, cause unnecessary fear, and disrupt the safety and well-being of our community. We take all threats seriously, and those who make them will be held accountable."
The Leesburg Police Department urges parents to talk to their children about the seriousness of making false threats. Even if there is no intent to carry them out, such actions can lead to significant legal consequences, including criminal charges.
This is also a good time to remind your children to “see something, say something” and that if they hear something they should report it immediately to police, an adult, or use the Safe2Talk app. Students should also be reminded not to perpetuate rumors or jokes through social media or gossip. This will allow schools and police to respond more efficiently to safety concerns.
The Leesburg Police Department would like to thank the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, Loudoun County Public Schools, and the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this case.
Case #: 2024-30511
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