Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Threatened to be killed by another school student.

On 2/8/06 my 12 yr old daughter was told by several school mates that a girl in a higher grade said that she was going to kill my daughter.The vice principle has been informed and is handling the matter. I want to know what kind of action can be taken against this girl for the threats she has made on my daughters life. My daughter did not know the girl until today.Thank You


Asked on 2/08/06, 11:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Re: Threatened to be killed by another school student.

The school disciplinary system will take whatever action it deems appropriate. You could, if you feel strongly enough, go to your local police station and file a complaint on the older girl. Assuming the older girl is under the age of 18, the juvenile justice system would have jurisdiction. The older girl could be charged with "Terroristic Threats", although since the words were not communicated directly to your daughter, the prosecution might have a tough case.

Despite the fear and anger you must feel over this situation, I recommend caution at this point - let the school investigate. Remember, your daughter didn't hear these threats herself, and she doesn't even know this other girl. Schoolyard stories so easily spin out of control. With hope, this is a one time misunderstanding that will never happen again. Of course, if something happens again, or you are truly fearful, you should press the school harder, and if unsatisfied, go to the police.

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Answered on 2/09/06, 9:15 am


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