This week a 17-year-old was arrested in California after threatening letters and a suspicious object were found on an elementary school campus. The letters invited school officials to “play a game,” similar to horror movie plots.
Officials say the object contained sodium ferrocyanide, a substance found in commercial products such as table salt and used in film processing. The investigation led to a teen’s arrest on charges of using a facsimile weapon of mass destruction and threatening to use a weapon of mass destruction.
Whether the intent to do harm was present or this was just an ill-advised attempt at a game or prank, the teen faces significant charges. Prosecutors are considering charging the teen as an adult, which has even more serious consequences (read more about this case, here).
Too often pranks, jokes and “games” get out of hand and even if no one is hurt, there can be harsh legal consequences. If your son or daughter is involved in a suspicious incident, or is being sought or questioned by the police, it’s important to get immediate representation from an attorney experienced in juvenile criminal defense. If you think you may need a lawyer, you should at least get a free case consultation from attorney Jerrell R. Johnson of JR Law. Call today to schedule a free consultation, 757-455-9277.