York Regional Police Criminal Investigations Bureau investigators have laid charges against a male youth following a threats investigation.
On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, officers attended a secondary school after the youth threatened to bring a firearm and cause harm at the school.
Through investigation, a search warrant was conducted at the youth’s residence and a number of firearms were seized.
The youth has since been charged with Uttering Threats and Possession of a Restricted Firearm without a Licence.
Youth Engagement Officers, under the York Regional Police Community Services Bureau, were engaged at the onset of the investigation. A Violent Threat Risk Assessment (VTRA) was conducted by Youth Engagement Officers, certified Board staff and community partners. This occurred once the student was removed from the school setting and no longer posed a threat.
The goal of a VTRA is to determine how to best support a student and decrease the likelihood of harm to themselves or others. In conjunction with a VTRA, a safety plan is created for the victim or potential victim.
York Regional Police remains committed to working collaboratively with the York Region school boards to ensure the safety of students and the broader community of York Region.
Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police non-emergency line at 1-866-876-5423 or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. An anonymous tip can also be left online at www.1800222tips.com.