A Perry High School student suspected of making a threat against the school has been arrested, according to the Gilbert Police Department.

The student “created a hoax” and was taken into custody over the weekend for investigation of disrupting an educational institution, the Police Department released Monday. The student could face felony charges.

The male student reportedly made vague threats to the school earlier this month, but police received new information over the weekend that led to his subsequent arrest. 

An email from the school’s principal to parents indicated the student continued to make threatening comments toward the school after he was removed from campus.

Police said the student acted alone, and there is no indication other students were making threats against the school, which is located in Gilbert, but a part of the Chandler Unified School District.

The identity of the student was not released because he is a juvenile. Dan Serrano, Perry High principal, sent an email to parents over the weekend clearing up some misinformation:

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I am writing to alleviate concerns about some rumors and misinformation that is being shared on social media regarding a resolved incident. Following up on a threat that was made by a student two weeks ago, the student was immediately identified and disciplinary action was taken. The student was removed from campus and is subject to law enforcement consequences.

CUSD and PHS have a zero tolerance policy toward any message or threat to staff and students and will work cooperatively with law enforcement to pursue prosecution in these matters.

Students and staff are safe, and there is no credible threat to school on Monday. I want to assure the Perry community that there is nothing we take more seriously than student safety.  We definitely understand student and parent anxiousness regarding any school threat, but want you to know that there is zero credibility to any of these rumors.

My own daughter attends this school and I would never place her or any other student in danger. Safety is always our primary concern. We will never skimp on ensuring the safety of every student, at all times. We will continue to do everything we can to make Perry High School a safe learning environment. We ask that all parents, students and staff continue to help in our school safety efforts by being the “eyes and ears” of all of our schools and our community.  If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call me at 224-2807.

Sincerely, Dan Serrano Principal, Perry High School.

Serrano sent another email with an update on the arrest:

Dear parents and guardians,

This is a brief update to yesterday’s e-mail regarding safety at Perry High School. Tonight the Gilbert Police Department arrested and detained the student for continuing to make comments on social media that were threatening in nature. Please continue to discuss with your children the seriousness of messages that can be considered a threat by others. Student and staff safety will always be our highest priority.

Sincerely, Dan Serrano Principal, Perry High School.

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