Full Notification

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office investigated a series of Instagram posts by a San Marcos High School student and determined that they were taken out of context and that no crime was committed. Sheriff’s detectives also determined that the student is not considered a threat and that there was never a credible threat to San Marcos High School related to the Instagram posts.

The Sheriff’s Office first became aware of the Instagram posts late last night, October 19 and deputies worked throughout the night to investigate the content and attempt to identify the source. The posts consisted of a number of short videos with music and editing effects as well as a photo. Word of the suspicious posts spread and created great concern this morning for some students at San Marcos High School and their parents. The student who had access to the Instagram account was contacted this morning by Sheriff’s detectives. It was determined the student did not have any intentions to threaten anyone and his posts were misinterpreted. No crime was committed and the student is not under investigation.

This incident is a reminder of the power of social media and the need to use discretion and caution when posting information. The Sheriff’s Office wants to take this opportunity to commend those individuals who promptly reported the suspicious posts which helped lead to a quick resolution.

The Sheriff’s Office also wants to stress the importance of having a School Resource Deputy on campus who is familiar to the students and whose knowledge of the students is extremely beneficial during an incident.