Published on
In a move echoing a growing trend among sheriffs across the country, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey has taken to publicly addressing the arrest of minors accused of threatening local schools. Sheriff Ivey’s recent statement regarding the arrest of 15-year-old Liahm Reidy sends a clear message to anyone considering making threats against schools in Brevard County: age and intention will not shield individuals from the law.
Just weeks ago, Brevard County Superintendent Mark Rendell stated that Brevard “would not be doing that.”
“Here is a strong message to anyone thinking about threatening our schools here in Brevard County…I don’t care who you are, how old you are, or even where you are, if you threaten to harm our children, our teachers, or our schools, I promise you we will find you and lock you up!!” Ivey stated in a social media post.
The sheriff’s comments came after Reidy was arrested following an FBI tip about a TikTok comment stating, “I’m shootin this school up,” which referred to a Brevard County school. Members of Brevard’s General Crimes Unit and District School Security quickly acted to identify Reidy, who now faces felony charges for electronic or written threats to kill. While Reidy claimed the comment was made in response to encouragement from a friend, Ivey made it clear that such excuses would not be tolerated.
“Well Liahm here is a good lesson for you as your so-called ‘friend’ is not the one being arrested for a felony, you are!!” Sheriff Ivey warned.
Sheriff Ivey’s approach mirrors a growing number of law enforcement officials nationwide who are publicly addressing school threats, even when they involve minors, as part of an effort to prevent future incidents and to stress the seriousness of these crimes. Ivey emphasized that threats against schools are no joke and that law enforcement will act swiftly to arrest anyone involved, regardless of their age or whether the threat seems credible.
“Parents, talk to your kids and make sure they understand that we have had enough of this crap taking place!!” Ivey urged, highlighting the importance of parental involvement in preventing such dangerous behavior.
As school threats become a pressing issue across the country, Ivey’s stance reinforces the county’s zero-tolerance policy. His warning to potential offenders is simple: “If you want to mess around in Brevard County, you’re gonna find out.”
Sheriff Ivey concluded by thanking the Brevard law enforcement community for their quick response and dedication to keeping the area safe, reminding everyone that safety in schools remains a top priority in Brevard County.
