Full Breakdown
Florida Sheriff Addresses Threats Made by Young Students
3/6/2026, 9:09:10 AM
Arrests of Young Students for Violent Threats
In Volusia County, Florida, two young students were arrested within a day of each other for making violent threats against their classmates and teachers. Anthony Steward, 11, a student at DeLand Middle School, allegedly hijacked a classmate’s Gradebook Communications account to send a message stating, “imma shoot you” to seven teachers. This incident marks Steward's second arrest for similar threats, as he was previously taken into custody in October for making the same type of threats against members of Southwestern Middle School.
Micah Swinnie, 10, a student at Pride Elementary School, was also arrested after reportedly leaving a “list of people who I’m gunna kill” on a desk in his classroom and writing a promise to bring a gun to school on a whiteboard. Swinnie expressed that he did not mean the threat and his parent assured authorities that he does not have access to a firearm. He was held on a felony charge of making a written threat to kill, although it remains uncertain if formal charges will be filed.
Official Statements & Responses
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood expressed frustration over the incidents, criticizing those who “coddle” children making threats. He emphasized the seriousness of such actions, stating, “These idiotic threats disrupt our schools, eat up time and resources, and increase the chances a real threat slips through the cracks.” Chitwood urged parents to take responsibility for their children's behavior, suggesting that if parents disciplined their kids, law enforcement would not need to intervene.
Criticism & Opposition
While Sheriff Chitwood's stance reflects a zero-tolerance approach to threats in schools, some may argue that the punitive measures taken against young children could be excessive. Critics might contend that addressing the underlying issues leading to such threats, rather than publicizing arrests, could be a more effective strategy for preventing future incidents.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If you can threaten to shoot 7 teachers you can take a perp walk. Parents, discipline your kids and I won’t have to.” — Sheriff Mike Chitwood, Volusia County
What's Next
The situation raises questions about the appropriate response to threats made by minors in educational settings. As authorities continue to evaluate the cases of Steward and Swinnie, discussions surrounding juvenile justice and school safety are likely to intensify. The outcomes of these cases may influence future policies regarding how schools and law enforcement handle threats made by students.
