S. Butler handles new Snapchat post
JEFFERSON TWP — Another Snapchat post is causing headaches for South Butler School District administration, but it has been determined to pose no threat to students or staff.
Neither Superintendent David Foley nor solicitor Tom Breth would divulge the grade or age of the male student who posted a photo of two shotguns and hunting knife with the caption “Can't wait until after school.”
Breth said a parent and student came forward with the post, showing it to a school district official.
“The school district followed its standard procedure, and state police were notified,” Breth said. “The information was relayed to the Butler County District Attorney for his evaluation.”
Breth said administration is working with the family to deal with the discipline consequences of the conduct.
Foley confirmed on Wednesday morning that the student will be disciplined.
He said he could not give any further details on the issue, including the meaning of the post.
Foley sent a letter to parents on Thursday regarding the reported threat.
“The investigation of this matter has determined that the post did not pose a credible threat to the health, safety and welfare of the students and staff of the (school) district,” Foley's letter stated.
The letter promised that district officials will “continue to be attentive to any issues that compromised safety and disrupt the learning process.”
Cpl. Michael Lewis of the state police said that the district attorney's office was not planning to take any action against the middle school student.
“They're not going to prosecute,” Lewis said. “It was just a kid on Snapchat in regard to hunting. It was bad timing.”
The incident follows another Snapchat post on Jan. 7 by Jason Bowen, 18, that showed him firing an AK style weapon with the caption “Training for prom walk.”
Bowen faces several charges, including terroristic threats, and has been in the Butler County Prison since his arrest. He remains in jail on $100,000 cash bond.
Bowen attended a preliminary hearing Wednesday, where District Judge Sue Haggarty determined sufficient evidence exists to hold the case for court.
