HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – Esteban Del Valle, the man accused of threatening a mass shooting at Gorrie Elementary School, will remain in jail until his trial. A judge granted the prosecution’s Pretrial Detention Motion, ensuring Del Valle’s continued detainment.
The 35-year-old was arrested last week after sending a disturbing text message threatening violence against the school. The threat was allegedly motivated by Del Valle’s anger over his child’s suspension.
A witness who received the message promptly alerted school administrators, who in turn contacted the Tampa Police Department.
A swift investigation led Tampa Police Detectives to confirm the threat originated from Del Valle’s phone. With assistance from the Clearwater Police, he was arrested at his Clearwater residence and transported to Pinellas County Jail.
“This should send a strong message to anyone who threatens our children, teachers, and school communities. You will be held accountable for your actions. Our community is safer with this defendant behind bars,” said Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez.
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