KENNEWICK, Wash. – A Kennewick High School student was arrested on Tuesday after allegedly making extortion threats via social media.
According to police, on Monday, a juvenile reported receiving a threatening message from an unknown person demanding a video and threatening harm to the victim and their family. The message suggested the suspect had personal knowledge of the juvenile.
Kennewick Police Department detectives investigated the case urgently. By the following afternoon, with help from the school resource officer, the suspect was apprehended at Kennewick High School.
He was booked into Benton County Jail for first-degree extortion and communication with a minor for immoral purposes.
The Kennewick Police Department expressed gratitude to the Kennewick School District for their cooperation and swift communication. They emphasized the importance of their partnership in ensuring student safety both online and at school.
They reminded the community that all threats involving students, even those occurring online or outside school, will be taken seriously. Parents are encouraged to discuss safety and respect with their children and report any concerning behavior.
