2 arrested after allegedly threatening to kill school officer

ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WHDH) -- Attleboro High School was on edge Monday night following the arrests of two former students who allegedly threatened to kill the school’s resource officer as well as others.

"Today we received information from a Attleboro High School adjustment counselor that threats were made via Facebook regarding a Columbine incident at Attleboro High School,” said Chief Kyle Heagney, Attleboro Police Department.

Ryan Ringuette, 20, along with his alleged partner in crime, 18-year-old Natick Sand, were taken into custody on Monday. Both are from Attleboro.

Some parents were upset that they that were only notified early Monday evening about the alleged threats against the school.

"I mean, everybody's calling everybody. My daughter goes to school here, you know. I mean, and I have to worry about her safety tomorrow? What do have under control because you have two kids that are arrested? How do you know there was only two kids involved in this?" said Joann Nephew, a concerned parent.

School officials say a student at the school got wind of the Facebook posts and brought it to their attention. Police wouldn’t disclose what the suspects’ motive might have been, but believe the situation has been brought under control.

“The school is safe; parents should feel the facility is absolutely safe to bring their children to. The incident was discovered. It was addressed and action was taken," said Chief Heagney.

Parents said they are worried that these threats are just the beginning, and not the end of a frightening situation.

“I just think it’s crazy, I’d like to know what these kids are thinking what’s happening to our kids now a days?” Nephew said.

Friends of the suspects defended them, saying they were just saying stupid things.

“I’ve known Natick Sand and Ryan Ringuette for a very long time. I’ve known them many years. I know that Ryan Ringuette is a very good kid, he’s always been a good kid...Made a couple bad mistakes in his life, but he’s a good kid at heart,” said Ryan Arsenault, a friend.

The suspects will be arraigned on Tuesday in Attleboro District Court.

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