FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(October 05, 2023 – 8:30p.m.)
Cedar Rapids, IA –
The Cedar Rapids Police Department, in cooperation with the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, has made an arrest in connection to the social media threats that closed the Cedar Rapids Community School District on Monday, October 02, 2023. The ongoing investigation led to a 14-year-old juvenile from Cedar Rapids being charged. No further information will be made available regarding the identity of the individual by the CRPD or CRCSD.
Dr Tawana Grover, Superintendent of the Cedar Rapids Community School District released the following statement following the arrest. “We are deeply grateful for the diligent and unwavering efforts of the Cedar Rapids Police Department. Their invaluable assistance and resources were paramount in ensuring the safety and security of our community.” She continued, “CRCSD would like to thank our parents and our community for their cooperation during this highly sensitive investigation as we work to ensure safe and secure learning environments in our schools.” The School District also added they will continue with their current precautionary safety protocol measures for Friday with an intent to lift them next week.
Cedar Rapids Police were made aware of social media threats against the Cedar Rapids Community School District on Saturday, September 30, and began an investigation that culminated with today’s arrest. Iowa DCI, and other law enforcement agencies were extraordinarily helpful in this case. CRPD is grateful this incident was successfully closed without violence. School Resource Officers and patrol officers remain vigilant in providing secure, safe learning environments for students and staff. Finally, cooperation and communication with CRCSD officials and staff through this event has been effective and smooth and allowed our teams to focus on the investigation.
Elements of this case remain under investigation.
For more information, contact:
Mike Battien
Public Safety Communications Specialist
City of Cedar Rapids
Cell: (319) 440-9293
m.battien@cedar-rapids.org
www.CityofCR.com
Justin Schaefer
Interim Director of Communications
Cedar Rapids Community School District
Direct Extension: 319-558-1394
Office Phone: 319-558-2104