More Thoughts on the Recent Bomb Scares in Helena

A 14-year old boy is thought to be responsible for all three bomb threats in Helena this past week.  The Helena Independent Record reported today that he has been arrested, and is being held on $25,000 bail.

He is fourteen.  Just a boy - who caused a remarkable amount of disruption in our community, from many miles away.  What was his motive?  Did he think he was participating in a humorous prank, or was he fully aware of the severity of his crime - and the potential charges he would face if caught?

His crime surely must be dealt with seriously, to set an example to act as a deterrent for others with similar plots. Law enforcement and school officials did well to track the calls back to him, before he could further interrupt the educational efforts of our schools.  Children need to understand that it is wrong to make any type of a prank call, and illegal to make this type of threat.

But, all I can think about is that he is only fourteen.

This event was an example of modern technology at its worst and its best.  A phone call from someone in another state caused all of our local schools to be evacuated yesterday yet cell phones played a crucial role in notifying parents and helping them locate their children after the event.