An 11-year-old boy has been arrested by police for allegedly orchestrating a fake school shooting to evade his classes and “go home early” in Florida, US. The shocking incident happened on December 5, sending Marion County Sheriff's Office into a frenzy as they responded to a distressing 911 call reporting a school shooter at Marion Oaks school.
The boy now faces serious charges, raising questions about the consequences of such pranks on both the educational community and law enforcement.
The sheriff’s office disclosed that the juvenile suspect executed the deceptive scheme by making a false 911 call from a friend's unattended cell phone. Prior to the call, the boy had expressed his desire to leave school early, setting the stage for an ill-conceived prank with severe consequences.
The charges filed against the 11-year-old include falsely reporting a mass shooting, utilizing a two-way communication device for a felony, disrupting a school function, and misusing the 911 emergency system.
In the released 911 audio, panic ensues as the boy frantically informs the operator about a supposed school shooter at his school.
"Help, there is a school shooter walking through the hallway," the boy reportedly said adding that the “shooter” was in building two before saying "he's coming" and hanging up.
The call lasted 43 seconds.
The call prompted a swift response from law enforcement, including a SWAT team, aviation unit, and K-9s. As the school faced evacuation and a thorough police search, palpable fear reverberated among students and teachers.
Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods expressed his dismay, condemning the young prankster for instigating terror within the educational community.
"This student put fear into his fellow students, staff, and parents. For what? A prank? Because you wanted to go home?" he said.
The sheriff emphasized the serious consequences awaiting the child, citing Florida law that mandates restitution for the costs incurred by law enforcement in responding to false reports.
The sheriff estimated the financial toll to be substantial, comprising "hundreds upon hundreds of man-hours." He added: "This young man is going to need to mow a lot of lawns to pay that bill."
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