Quote:Documents claim that Ye reportedly contemplated targeting an elementary school.


"The charges are extremely serious, involving alleged threats to harm others. We value and appreciate the close collaboration between [Montgomery County Public Schools] and MCPD in this matter, which is an example of our shared commitment to identify and address potential threats with due process before they materialize," a statement from MCPS read. "The student, who has not physically attended an MCPS school since the fall of 2022, has been actively participating in lessons through a virtual program called Online Pathways to Graduation."

According to officials, Ye's alleged manifesto was shared with Baltimore police on March 3, by someone else who knew Ye as both people received treatment at a psychiatric facility in Maryland. Ye started receiving mental health treatment in December of 2022 after making a series of alleged threats.

According to documents, Ye's former counselor said he, between Oct. 2022 and Feb. 2023, frequently made harmful comments towards others. Ye also reportedly told the counselor that he wanted to be famous for his acts.

Ye was charged with threat of mass violence, meaning he's being accused of "knowingly threaten to commit" a violent crime. He's being held in the Montgomery County Detention Center without bond.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, Council President Friedson, Public Safety Chair Katz, and Education & Culture Chair Jawando shared the following joint statement:



"Today, we learned about a potential incident of school violence that was deterred due to the great work and collaboration between the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD), Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This investigation occurred due to a tip from an unnamed source – who should be considered a hero because they ‘saw something and said something’ and likely saved lives.
Although this potential incident was prevented, we know that this news may cause anxiety within our school communities. In the short term, MCPD has increased its presence at Wootton High School and will do so at other schools as warranted. We advise families needing assistance coping with the trauma this incident may cause to access help through the County’s Crisis Center Hotline at 240-777-4000.
MCPD, MCPS, and the Office of the State’s Attorney, working with the federal law enforcement offices, will continue investigating this case. However, one thing is already clear: the suspect pointed to lack of access to a firearm as a key factor in preventing the individual from taking action. Maryland gun laws provide an essential barrier against individuals with a significant history of mental illness and violent ideations from obtaining firearms.
This incident is a somber reminder that we must continue to focus on the mental health of our youth and young adults. We will continue our investments, partnerships, and collaborations with MCPS, Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health teams, and crisis response experts. Additionally, we are working to expand our communications and engagement efforts with students, parents, teachers, and families of young adults throughout the County to ensure that they know where and how to get help when needed.
Saturday, April 20th, is the 25thanniversary of the Columbine High School shooting.We must recognize the important role each of us can play in supporting safety and security for all people. When we work collaboratively, we set an example that others will follow to ensure that our children, and indeed our residents, are safe in school, the workplace, and at home."