Robinson faces two charges

Two students at Deshler Public Schools were removed by law enforcement after a threat incident at the school Feb. 12, where teachers and students were instructed to remain in their classrooms under a “Hold in your classrooms” order.

Taitum Robinson, 18, of Deshler, has been charged with terroristic threats and third degree assault. The other student, a juvenile, was interviewed and released. On Feb. 12, a Thayer County Deputy was informed the school had received information about a possible threat. The deputy investigated and discovered the students had a discussion, which included a plan to use guns to shoot the principal, office staff and the superintendent.

Both students have had conversations about being bullied, according to an affidavit filed in Thayer County Court. The plan was detailed enough to establish how many people they would need to help them so school officials would not be allowed to contact police. 

During his interview with the deputy, Robinson said it was a “really bad joke.” He said other students had told him he would get into trouble if he didn’t stop talking about it. The affidavit stated Robinson doesn’t have access to guns because the gun cabinet at his home is locked. He doesn’t have a key. The cabinet has a glass front.   

The school informed the deputy Robinson is not allowed in school. He paid $500 of a $5,000 bond and was ordered to be in court Feb. 24 at 10 a.m. He was also ordered not to possess firearms or ammunition.  The school sent a letter to all parents advising the students had “plans to engage in physical violence in our school.”

The letter also stated: “We have a good relationship with local law enforcement and we have no hesitation involving them when a threat appears credible. Appropriate measures will and have been taken to ensure the safety of our students and staff.”

“We want to assure parents that we have and will continue to take the appropriate measures to address inappropriate behaviors and provide a safe learning environment for students.”

Thayer County Sheriff David Lee said any threats, whether students believe they are joking or not, will be taken seriously.