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FBI joins investigation into racist text messages sent to students across country, including Derby High School

Online Niel November 8, 2024

DERBY, Kan. (KWCH) – The FBI has joined an investigation into offensive and racist text messages which were sent all over the country.

Derby Public Schools said the message has been circulated in its district. Once Derby High School was alerted to the situation, the school resource officer (SRO) was notified.

“Hateful and targeted racist messages have no place in our community and especially in our schools,” the district said. “Derby Public Schools does not tolerate bullying, discrimination or racism.”

The district said the SRO has identified and met with the person who sent the messages to local students.

Derby Police Chief Brandon Russell confirmed that officers were also investigating the situation Thursday morning and had spoken to several people. He said because minors are involved, the department could not say much, except that no one wanted to press charges in the case.

12 News spoke with a mother in Derby who said her child received the text saying they were “chosen to be slaves at Derby High School.” She said the message was sent to students who are black, Hispanic or biracial and told them to “be prepared to be searched before entering the plantation.”

The district did not say whether the person who posted the message was a student, but said student matters are confidential and the matter is being addressed.

“The safety and well-being of our students and families is our top priority,” the district said. “When threats, harassment or bullying occurs, it should be reported; the district or appropriate responding agencies promptly review all reported situations.”

The FBI said it had reached out to the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter. Like Derby Public Schools and police, the agency said such incidents should be reported to school administrators or law enforcement.

“As always, we encourage members of the public to report threats of physical violence to local law enforcement,” the FBI said.

$260 said the messages not only violate our district’s core values, but may constitute criminal harassment.

Any student who receives the message is asked to notify school administration, school resource officers or report tips anonymously using multiple reporting methods, including the P3 Crimestoppers app. Learn more HERE.