HIGH POINT, NC -- An 18-year-old has been arrested after several Guilford County Schools were threatened on social media.
Monday evening, High Point Police were "inundated" with tips regarding a threat posted on social media.
The threat included pictures of firearms and a list of Guilford County Schools.
Detectives began investigating these threats and warrants were issued for Kayshaun Williams, 18, of Jamestown, for false report of mass violence on educational property.
Police searched Williams' residence and no firearms were found in the home. They believe that the photo of a gun used in the threatening message was taken off the internet.
Per Williams' indictment, he is accused of making multiple social media posts with photographs of firearms indicating a potential report of mass violence to occurs at multiple high schools to include Southwest High School, Andrews High School, Southern Guilford High School, Southwest Guilford High School, Northeast Guilford High School.
Deputies from Guilford County assisted in locating Williams at his residence. He was arrested for this incident.
According to High Point police, Williams admitted to making the threat on social media when interviewed.
High Point police say that this was not a result of gang violence, but of "personality conflicts" between Williams and other unidentified students.
He received a $250,000 secured bond.
Williams made his first appearance in court via teleconference.
During the appearance, Williams and members of his family became very emotional, crying at times. Williams put his head in his hands as the judge read the charges against him.
Prosecutors said Williams' phone was being searched for evidence linked to a possible threat of violence.
Williams' family spoke on his behalf, in hopes that the judge would reduce his $250,000 bond.
One member stressed that no weapons were found inside the house and that this is the first and only time William's has been arrested.
The judge denied reducing the bond.
He must also face a mental health assessment before being released on bond.
If found guilty, he could face up to 39 months in prison.
Dr. Sharon Contreras, superintendent with Guilford County Schools, shared the following statement on Tuesday:
“While we are deeply saddened that these incidents have brought us to this point, we are grateful to our law enforcement partners for responding and resolving the issue so quickly, and we're thankful to those who did the right thing and brought this to our attention. Before sharing a rumor on social media, please contact your child's school or law enforcement. At a time when so many are already feeling stressed due to the pandemic, the last thing we need is for false threats to create even more anxiety and fear."
