A substitute teacher in Louisiana has been arrested after allegedly triggering false active shooter alerts at five schools, causing security responses throughout the district. The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office reported that Lytonja Barfield, aged 58, was charged with five counts of menacing.
The investigation was initiated when alerts were sent to several schools, prompting the Caddo Parish School Board to contact the sheriff’s office regarding potential threats. The alerts led to the implementation of security protocols by school officials, ensuring the safety of students and staff, while also assessing the validity of the threats.
Don Gibbs, director of security for the school board, informed investigators that Barfield used the emergency management system to issue alerts about active shooters at five locations. Upon discovering the alerts were false, officials identified Barfield as the sender.
Caddo Parish Public Schools confirmed that Barfield is no longer employed with the district. At the time of the incident, she was not assigned to any district site. The district assured that their security protocols were followed in response to the alerts to maintain safety.
“We are cooperating fully with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office as they continue their investigation into the matter. Ms. Barfield is no longer employed by the district, and, at the time of the incident, she was not assigned to work at any district site,” stated the district.
Authorities did not disclose which schools were affected or the specific security measures used. A detective from the sheriff’s office located and questioned Barfield about the incident. Following the investigation, Barfield was arrested and taken to the Caddo Correctional Center.
The sheriff’s office emphasized the impact of false reports, noting they can disrupt schools, activate emergency protocols, and instill fear among the school community. Although the investigation continues, no motive for the alerts has been disclosed.
False reports of active threats can create significant disruptions and concerns within schools and the community. The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office continues to gather information to understand the situation fully.