A Lakewood Township man is facing charges after allegedly posting a threatening message on TikTok targeting students and teachers at a local school.

According to the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, federal and local authorities began investigating on April 12 after the FBI’s Springfield office received a tip about the social media threat. The post referenced plans to carry out a school shooting and was traced to the Lakewood area in Shelby County.

Investigators with the FBI, Shelbyville Police Department, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office quickly identified the suspect as 23-year-old Joseph Jenkins of Lakewood. Authorities say Jenkins has a criminal history that includes previous arrests for making threats toward Shelby County deputies on social media.

On April 13, law enforcement located Jenkins at his home in Lakewood. During questioning, Jenkins reportedly admitted to making the threat. He was arrested and charged with making terrorist threats and disorderly conduct.

Jenkins appeared in Shelby County Court on April 14, where a judge ordered him to be held in the Shelby County Jail.

The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that it takes all online threats seriously and is committed to holding individuals accountable.

Sheriff Brian McReynolds says all efforts will be made to identify and arrest those responsible for such actions.