Tyler Jace Henrichs

A Princeton High School student was arrested Thursday, Feb. 22 on charges associated with a terroristic threat.

Tyler Jace Henrichs, 17, was arrested for terroristic threat causing impairment to public service, a Third Degree felony.

According to Texas Penal Code, the charge is a felony when “a person commits an offense if he threatens to commit any offense involving violence to any person or property with intent to place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury.”

According to information released by Police Chief James Waters, on Feb. 22 Princeton Independent School District Administrators and School Resource Officers were made aware of a possible hit list at the high school.

“Through the investigation it was determined that there was never an actual threat to any administrators, teachers or students at the school,” he said. “Further investigation led officials to understand that a student was ‘joking’ when statements were made. School officials and the police department have taken this ‘joke’ very seriously and are conducting necessary measures to ensure the continued safety of the schools and city.”

Even though there is no active threat toward any of the students or staff, the Princeton Police Department put extra officers and security on campuses Friday, Feb. 23.

The Princeton ISD School Board has been working on improving security within the district over the past several months and they have added the position of security director, which will begin sometime next year, according to school officials.

“The safety of our students is our utmost concern. If you have any actually information contact high school administration or Princeton Police Department. Posting on social media does not get the information to the ones who need it,” Superintendent Phil Anthony said. “Parents, help your students understand that actions or statements in any forum that threaten or hint of school violence, even if no harm is intended, will be met with life-changing consequences in the criminal justice system.”

The district cannot comment on any disciplinary actions that will be taken against the student.

By Wyndi Veigel • News Editor • [email protected]

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