Olathe Schools Reopen Feb. 8 Following Credible Threat

UPDATE 2/7/19 3:42pm: Following the investigation by the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office, the juvenile has been taken into custody and charged with felony menacing and interfering with faculty, staff, students at an educational institution. The juvenile is being transferred to the Grand Mesa Youth Services Center.
—
Olathe Schools Reopen Feb. 8 Following Credible Threat

Montrose, COLO.–On the evening of Feb. 6, Montrose County School District Re-1J and Montrose County Sheriff’s Office received a Safe2Tell report of a credible threat to an Olathe school made by a student. Agencies determined the threat was credible after reviewing the student’s social media account. The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office and the Montrose County School District Re-1J immediately began investigating the situation, and the decision was made to cancel the schools in the interest of student, faculty, and public safety.

The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office made contact with the student and the student’s family shortly after midnight. A search of the residence produced no weapons or ammunition. At this time, the Montrose County Sheriff’s Office is continuing the investigation and working in conjunction with both the school district and district attorney’s office. Montrose County School District disciplinary processes are also ongoing.

“I have full confidence that our schools are safe. These type of threats will not be tolerated,” said Sheriff Gene Lillard. “I’d like to commend the individuals that came forward with the information and used Safe2Tell as the method.”

Olathe Schools will resume as normally scheduled on Friday, February 8th. The Montrose County Sherriff’s Office and Olathe Police Department will have an increased law enforcement presence at Olathe Schools.
“Montrose County School District takes all threats seriously. The safety and security of our students, staff and community is paramount. We thank the MCSO for their quick and thorough response” said Superintendent Stephen Schiell.

Emotions are understandably high right now. Please refrain from spreading rumors on social media.
These matters are of serious concern to the community and we continue to encourage students and parents to report potential threats of violence. As always, if you are aware of a threat to the safety of any school, call 911, or if you prefer to remain anonymous, report to Safe2Tell at safe2tell.org, or by calling 1-877-542-7233 or you can download the Safe2Tell app.