KILGORE, TX - The Kilgore Police Department issued a public statement addressing a recent middle school threat investigation and a student walkout tied to immigration concerns, emphasizing that no criminal laws were violated in either incident.
Middle School Threat Investigation
Police said detectives began investigating a reported threat at Kilgore Middle School after being notified following the end of the school day. The findings were shared with the school district, which took what officials described as appropriate action.
According to the department, the situation stemmed from comments that escalated from conversation into banter and then into words that could be perceived as a threat. As the information spread from person to person and onto social media, the account changed significantly.
Authorities said they do not anticipate filing criminal charges but emphasized that school threats are taken seriously. Officials stated that if a credible danger is identified, immediate action would be taken and the public would be notified.
Student Walkout
On Thursday morning, fewer than 100 students walked out of school and gathered near Highway 42 and Kilgore Street to protest concerns related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Police and the Kilgore Independent School District were aware of the planned demonstration in advance. The district notified parents beforehand and outlined potential school consequences for participating.
Police clarified that no laws were broken and that the students were exercising their First Amendment rights. The department denied rumors that officers assisted in organizing the protest, stating their role was limited to maintaining public safety.
During the demonstration, officers ensured students remained out of roadways and off private property. A small number of written warnings were issued for jaywalking, and some motorists were stopped for reckless driving. The gathering ended peacefully.
Jurisdiction and Immigration
The department stated it is a municipal law enforcement agency and does not conduct federal immigration enforcement. Officials said they maintain a standard policing approach but cooperate with federal agencies when requested. According to the department, fewer than eight immigration-related matters were handled in the past year, primarily involving individuals who allegedly returned after deportation and committed additional crimes.
Officials also noted that individuals arrested for a Class B misdemeanor or higher are processed through a national database at the county jail, which may trigger an immigration detainer.
In its conclusion, the department stated it remains committed to protecting public safety and constitutional rights, describing the demonstration as orderly and respectful.
