St. Patrick's Catholic High School located at 1001 The Rapids Parkway in Sarnia. Image captured via Google Street view. St. Patrick's Catholic High School located at 1001 The Rapids Parkway in Sarnia. Image captured via Google Street view.
Sarnia

UPDATE: Charges laid following investigation at St. Pat's

A youth has been charged with one count of uttering threats following an investigation at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in Sarnia.

A threatening message had been found inside of a desk Monday afternoon.

By Monday night, the school board said a student had stepped forward and cooperated with police. It was determined there was no threat to the school community and the investigation was closed.

“I know that this matter was upsetting for many and I am pleased to be able to now lay those concerns to rest,” Education Director Scott Johnson previously said. “I also want to thank the St. Patrick’s school staff for their assistance in the police investigation.”

Sarnia police said threats are not taken lightly and will be investigated thoroughly.

"We don't know if it's real or not until we actually investigate it but by that time, its become a very grave concern to the community, especially the students and the parents of the students," said Cst. John Sottosanti. "If we are able to determine that a specific individual has committed a crime then we will charge that individual, regardless of the excuses because there is no excuse."

The incident on Monday was the third potential threat investigated at a local school this month.

Two youths were arrested last week after a disturbing message was found at Northern Collegiate in Sarnia. Prior to that, a teen was charged after a threatening message was found at Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational School in Petrolia.

Sottosanti couldn't confirm whether or not the incidents have been associated with a social media challenge.

"Ultimately, it baffles our minds why it is happening, knowing full well that this is scaring people," said Sottosanti.

-With files from Ruby Sweeney and Melanie Irwin

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