Teen arrested in connection to Snapchat threat at Valley school

CHANDLER, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Police say a teen has been arrested in connection to a Snapchat made towards a Valley elementary school.

The Chandler Police Department says the threat targeted San Tan Elementary School near Chandler Heights and Cooper Roads and they became aware of it on April 25 after receiving several calls from people who reported seeing it on Snapchat.

Investigators say a 14-year-old teen, who was originally thought to be a victim, was arrested after posting to Snapchat that someone was going to kill him at school, however, police believe he made it up.

The teen faces one felony charge.

The Chandler Unified School District sent the following email to parents:

"We are writing to inform you that late last night Chandler Police received information about a threat involving Santan. Police investigated and made an arrest this morning. We appreciate Chandler Police's efforts to resolve this matter in a timely manner. Classes will continue as scheduled. To address any concerns about safety, Chandler Police will have increased presence at our campus today.

The purpose of this letter is to keep you informed of issues related to campus safety and to encourage open dialogue about community and school safety. We ask parents to play a role in our safety efforts by reiterating with your children the importance of informing staff whenever he/she has information related to the safety of our community or school.

We also ask you to continue discussions with your children about the seriousness of actions and words that others might be considered a threat. We will continue to have zero tolerance toward any message or threat to staff and students and will work cooperatively with the Chandler Police to pursue prosecution in these matters. We ask that all parents, students and staff continue to help in our school safety efforts by being the "eyes and ears" of all of our schools and our community."