IOTA, La. - Rumors circulated through an Acadia Parish high school on Tuesday that there was a weapon on school grounds and police are now asking parents to talk to their children about spreading misinformation.
On September 24, 2019, Iota Police Chief Damon Daigle responded to a complaint at Iota High School that one of their students had received a death threat the night before while at home. The faculty and the parents were expressing concern for their child's safety while at school, according to Daigle. During the investigation, it was determined there was no credible threat to the student.
Police determined a threat was made by a Eunice resident who is not a student. Iota Police Department is working closely with Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office and Eunice Police Department to resolve the initial complaint.
Chief Daigle said numerous students began spreading rumors around campus via social media that there was a weapon on school grounds. At no time was there ever a weapon on school grounds, he added.
"Spreading misinformation causes more trouble for law enforcement, then the perceived benefits," Daigle said. Daigle urges parents to speak to their children and encourage them not to use their phones while in school except for an emergency.
