By Sandoval Signpost Staff
Rio Rancho Public Schools and the Rio Rancho Police Department both released statements regarding an audio recording of a former student making threats against Rio Rancho High School.
“The RRHS administration was recently made aware of an audio recording of a former student making threats against our school,” RRPS said in a statement. “As this individual is no longer a student at RRHS, we reported the threats to the Rio Rancho Police Department, who are actively investigating and responding to the threatening remarks. We want to assure you that we are aware of the situation, and we are working closely with local law enforcement to ensure that this issue is addressed appropriately.”
The former student specifically mentioned the date of Feb. 14 while making the threats, which the school district also addressed.
“We understand that this situation has caused fear and anxiety among students and parents, and we want to assure you that student safety is a top priority for not only our school, but our district as well,” RRPS said. “We do not believe that any of our students or staff are in danger due to these threats, but out of an abundance of caution and to help ease any feelings of anxiety among our community, we will have an increased security and law enforcement presence on and around that day. The individual in question is under active investigation by the juvenile justice system and has been criminally trespassed from all RRPS facilities.”
The district said threats spread fear, disrupt the learning process and result in the misuse of valuable law enforcement resources and mentioned House Bill 31, which was introduced in this year’s legislative session and proposes making shooting threats against a school a felony.
“This is a very serious matter to our district, law enforcement and state lawmakers,” RRPS said.
The Rio Rancho Police Department said it takes all threats against schools very seriously.
“We are aware of a recent threat made by a juvenile and have thoroughly investigated the incident,” RRPD said in a statement. “In response, you will see an increased uniformed police presence at our schools in the coming days and weeks to ensure the safety of students, staff and our community.”