The West Fork Community School District and law enforcement officials said this weekend that based on information recently received during an ongoing investigation referencing rumored threats toward the school district, a “primary suspect” in this situation continues to be detained by law enforcement.
Based on recommendations from law enforcement, other suspects in question have been temporarily suspended per school policy until the investigation is complete. As an additional precaution, law enforcement officers will be on site at the West Fork High School. Entrance to the school will be restricted to the main north door.
Law enforcement is requesting anyone with knowledge to come forward and contact them. Information can be directed to the Franklin County Law Enforcement Center at 641-456-2731 (ask for the Sheffield Police Department).
Those officials contributing to the above information are Sam Cain- Chief of Police, Sheffield Police Department; Cotten Kensett —Sheffield Police; Stephen Bardole- Chief Deputy, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office; Darrin Strike–Superintendent, West Fork Community School District; and Jim Tuttle -West Fork CSD Board President.
Monday, more information was sent to parents. In an effort to provide additional reassurance to parents and students and to answer some questions, Superintendent of Schools Darrin Strike clarified the measures taken today to keep students safe, saying “these measures are taken not because of a continued threat but to help parents feel reassured”:
Sheffield Elementary Entrance
There will be a combination of school personnel and/or law enforcement at the south door from early morning until school starts.
Rockwell Campus
For the purpose of providing comfort to parents and students, we have received confirmation that Cerro Gordo County Law Enforcement will be present at the Rockwell Campus in the morning.