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Academic Success Center student arrested for terroristic threats identified, out on bond
[February 14, 2013]

Academic Success Center student arrested for terroristic threats identified, out on bond


Feb 15, 2013 (Columbus Ledger-Enquirer - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- Anthony W. Aragon, a 17-year-old student at the Academic Success Center, was arrested Wednesday night in his Ray Drive home for allegedly making terroristic threats against his school on social media. According to a Columbus police report, Aragon made a comment on Facebook that said, in part, "If a few lives are lost so be it." The report did not say in what context the comment was written or to whom the comment was addressed. Scott Thomann, the Muscogee County School District's security director, also wouldn't disclose any other details of the threats.



"There were just other comments made in regard to the school he goes to," he said Thursday. "He made reference to his school and other things that were in context when they were put all together." Thomann said no threats were made against any people or group, only the school, and no other students were involved. No mode of violence was mentioned or imminent, he said. "An informant" alerted him to the threats, and he notified police, he said.

"We've got good kids and good parents who keep their eyes and ears open," he said. "They believe in us to do the right thing. We are blessed.


"Fortunately, this one turned out like we hope all of them do. In the climate we are living in, we have to take this seriously." Valerie Fuller, the school district's communications director, said in a news release, "Students and staff are safe, and Columbus police and MCSD security officers are aware of the postings and have taken a proactive approach to protect students and staff. We commend students, parents and staff for all reports of potential threats as safety is priority." Academic Success Center parents and employees received an automated phone call about the situation Thursday at 6 a.m., and parents were scheduled to receive a follow-up email Thursday evening, the release said.

Marietta Webb, the school's principal, said Thursday was a "normal" school day with no extraordinary absences. She confirmed that Aragon is suspended from school.

Aragon was released Wednesday night on a $10,000 bond from the Muscogee County Jail. He didn't have a preliminary hearing in Columbus Recorders Court. His case was bound over to Muscogee Superior Court.

Read the Georgia law regarding terroristic threats here.

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