NEWTON COUNTY – Deputies have arrested a 13-year-old student in the Newton County School System for making threats towards students and staff at Eastside High School.

The teen, who was not identified outside of that he is a male, was arrested on Sept. 5 by deputies with the Newton County Sheriff’s Office (NCSO). 

NCSO spokesperson Caitlin Jett told The Covington News that the threats the teenager made were in-person.

The teen is being formally charged with terroristic threats and acts is currently being held by the Juvenile Court System.

According to an incident report from the NCSO, the teen reportedly told another student that he was going to be "the next school shooter." The student then reported this to a teacher.

The incident report also stated that the student was suspended in May 2024 for similar threats.

Officers read the teen and his father the juvenile Miranda waiver, in which the father "declined his child speaking with law enforcement," according to the incident report.

The 13-year-old has been suspended for 10 days, per school policy, and a hearing will be conducted to determine if he can return to the school or not.

The agency provided a brief comment on the matter in their news release.

“Sheriff Ezell Brown urges all students and their parents to understand that any threats or acts of violence will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” per the news release. “All threats made towards NCSS students, staff, or anyone will be taken seriously. Ensuring the safety and security of our schools and community remains a top priority. 

“The Sheriff's Office works closely with the Newton County School System to maintain a safe learning environment. We encourage everyone to report any suspicious behavior or concerns immediately.”

NCS released the following statement about the matter: 

“Newton County Schools has experienced two separate incidents in which a student at Eastside High School and one at Clements Middle School made threatening remarks regarding school safety. In each case, law enforcement was notified. The students in question will face possible legal consequences in addition to disciplinary actions for violating the Newton County Schools' Student Code of Conduct.

 The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority, and we take any and all threats seriously. We urge parents to speak with their children about the gravity of making threatening remarks, as these actions carry significant legal and disciplinary ramifications. Newton County Schools remains committed to providing a safe environment for all students and staff.”

This is an ongoing story. Check back at covnews.com for all updates.