Crime & Safety
Scioto County, OH School Threat: Terrorism-Related Felony Charges
Scioto County, OH – Two juveniles have been arrested following an investigation into a potential terrorist threat involving Valley Local Schools in southern Ohio, with authorities confirming multiple
By Nora Whitfield · 2026-10-19T23:58:45.326Z
Scioto County, OH – Two juveniles have been arrested following an investigation into a potential terrorist threat involving Valley Local Schools in southern Ohio, with authorities confirming multiple felony charges, including making a terrorist threat and grand theft of a firearm.
According to the Scioto County Sheriff 's Office, investigators were notified Saturday, Oct. 17, about a potential threat involving the school district, prompting detectives to open an investigation into concerns surrounding student and staff safety.
As the investigation progressed, detectives received additional information that heightened concerns about the reported threat.
Two Juveniles Taken Into Custody
Sheriff David Thoroughman said deputies and detectives worked closely with Valley Local Schools officials to investigate the situation and take appropriate steps to protect students and employees.
On Sunday, Oct. 18, authorities located two juveniles and took them into custody without incident.
Investigators also recovered evidence connected to the case, although officials did not disclose what was recovered.
Terrorist Threat and Firearm Charges Filed
The sheriff's office confirmed six charges associated with the investigation, including five third degree felonies and one fourth degree felony.
The charges include making a terrorist threat, complicity to making a terrorist threat, grand theft of a firearm, receiving stolen property, tampering with evidence and inducing panic.
Authorities have not specified which charges apply to each juvenile.
Both juveniles are being held at the Ross County Juvenile Detention Center.
School Threat Investigation Continues
Sheriff Thoroughman commended Valley Local Schools for promptly reporting the matter and assisting detectives.
The sheriff's office has not disclosed the specific nature of the alleged threat or confirmed whether a firearm was brought onto school property.
Additional charges may be referred to the Scioto County Juvenile Court as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sgt. Jodi Conkel at 740 351 1091 .
The charges remain allegations, and the juveniles are presumed innocent unless adjudicated delinquent in court.