A 12-year-old boy is facing serious consequences following a prank perceived as a threat to a youth soccer league. This incident occurred in Yuma, Arizona, where concerned parents received a threatening message in a group chat.
Details of the Incident
On December 29, the Yuma Police Department reported that parents in the soccer league group chat received a text indicating a potential threat at the Ray Kroc Athletic Complex.
As a precautionary measure, police increased security at the complex, and soccer practices were canceled to ensure the safety of all participants.
Investigation Findings
Investigators discovered that the threatening message originated from a young boy. The Yuma Police Department, assisted by the Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center (ACTIC), identified the sender as a 12-year-old male. It turned out that his phone number had been mistakenly included in the group chat, and he was not connected to the soccer league.
The boy acknowledged sending the text, stating that it was intended as a joke. However, the seriousness of the situation prompted law enforcement to take action.
Legal Consequences
The Yuma Police Department announced that charges will be submitted to the Yuma County Juvenile Justice Center (YCJJC) for consideration. They emphasized their commitment to addressing all threats seriously to maintain public safety.
Community Collaboration
The Yuma Police expressed gratitude to the Soccer League, City of Yuma Parks and Recreation, and all involved agencies for their cooperation during this incident. The department has reiterated its dedication to thorough investigations to ensure community safety.
Reporting Concerns
If anyone has additional information about this incident or concerns related to it, they are encouraged to contact Yuma PD at 928-783-4421. For those wishing to remain anonymous, they can call 928-782-7463.
