ARREST MADE AFTER "BURNBOOK" THREAT AGAINST EL CAJON VALLEY HIGH

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Grossmont district blocks access to Burn Book app following latest incident

March 11, 2015 (El Cajon ) – An anonymous message sent on the popular phone app “BurnBook” at 12:40 a.m. threatened the safety of students and staff at El Cajon Valley High School, El Cajon Police reports.

After the threat was brought to the attention of school administrators, police presence on campus was heightened while an investigation ensued. An eighth grader who reportedly posted the threat was located at a nearby middle school and arrested, booked into juvenile hall on charges of making criminal threats.  Police believe there was not any actual danger to anyone at the school.

“BurnBook” is a popular phone application which allows subscribers to post anonymous comments as a form of social media. The app, popular among teenagers, has evolved into a method to spread rumors, engage in cyber-bullying, and make threats to others. Some previous threats made from the Burn Book app have forced local schools to go into lockdown, which has significantly impacted police resources.

Following today’s incident, Grossmont Union High School District Superintendent Ralf Swenson announced in a message on the district’s website that the district has blocked access to Book Burn on district media. However he asks help from parents and students.

“We are encouraging students to delete the BurnBook app,” said Swenson, who urged parents to regularly review apps on students’ phones as well as photos, and to remind teens to guard their online reputations.

The mobile app has caused “serious disruption at high schools throughout San Diego County and nationwide,” Swenson stated, adding it has been used by students to engage in cyber bullying and threats against schools. Those making threats may believe they can remain anonymous, but Swenson warns, “They are wrong, and they will be made known.”

BurnBook has agreed to share IP addresses with law enforcement of users who post threats.

Captain Davis with the El Cajon Police confirms, “Burn Book developers were fully cooperative with law enforcement during this investigation.”

All school threats are taken very seriously, Captain Davis added.  “Anyone with information regarding threats to a school or to students is encouraged to immediately notify school staff, a School Resource Officer, or any Police Officer.”

 


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