A 16-year-old teen from Fort White, identified as Jacob Jessup, has been arrested following a months-long investigation into a school shooting threat made in April 2024. The investigation, led by Detective Chad Guerry of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), began after a call was made to the sheriff’s office threatening to carry out a school shooting. The threat was part of a series of similar incidents reported across the nation, drawing local, state, and federal agencies into a coordinated investigation.
The CCSO, in collaboration with federal partners, including Special Agent Bobby Blythe of the FBI, and local law enforcement such as Matthew Fulmer with the Gahanna, Ohio Police Department, worked diligently to trace electronic evidence connected to Jessup. After several months of investigation, authorities were able to establish probable cause for his arrest.
Jessup was taken into custody by investigators from the State Attorney’s Office and CCSO detectives earlier today. He now faces at least 48 criminal charges for using a two-way communication device to threaten harm. Although Jessup is a juvenile, he will be referred to adult court due to the severity of the charges.
The investigation highlights the growing concern over social media trends, which have sometimes resulted in false school shooting reports, leading to unnecessary emergency responses and disruption to the educational system. Local officials had previously warned of the legal consequences for anyone responsible for making such threats. Jessup’s arrest serves as a reminder that these types of actions will be met with serious criminal charges.
The investigation is ongoing, and additional arrests may be made. Along with potential prison time, those found guilty may be required to pay restitution for the public safety resources dedicated to these incidents.
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