MCMINN COUNTY, Tenn. — A man was arrested in McMinn County and charged with making threats of mass violence on school property, according to Sheriff Joe Guy, with the McMinn County Sheriff's Office.
MCSO said at around 1:34 p.m. on Wednesday, it was made aware by 911 dispatchers that a suspect near Niota Elementary School allegedly made a threatening statement toward schools.
"In an abundance of caution, the sheriff's office responded to the school along with school administrators, placing the building in a “Hold” state and securing all students and staff within the building," MCSO said.
MCSO said at the same time, deputies notified the local Homeland Security Agent and responded to the suspect's residence on County Road 255.
"Within 15 minutes of receiving the call, our deputies and the Homeland Security Agent had the suspect identified and in custody,” said Sheriff Joe Guy. “It was also determined that Webb had made a threatening social media post as well.”
According to School Security Director Justin Wallace, once the suspect had been detained, the hold at the school was lifted.
"We are thankful for the quick response of our administrators and local law enforcement in prioritizing the safety of our school district," said Wallace.
Suspect Joshua Webb, 44, was then placed in custody and taken to the McMinn County Jaill where he is being held on charges of making threats of mass violence on School Property, MCSO said.
"If you make a threat, we are coming to get you," said Guy.