An arrest has been made in connection with an incident Thursday morning that prompted a "soft lockdown" by the Keokuk School District.
Keokuk Police Chief Dave Hinton said in a statement that Jeremy Burns, 25, of Donnellson is charged with one count of Threats of Terrorism. Hinton did not disclose what Burns said or to whom he said it.
Hinton said police were called to the Head Start School at 220 S. 22nd Street at about 8:40 a.m. because of an argument. He said Burns was arrested in connection with the argument about an hour later in the 3100 block of Main Street.
Burns was taken to the Lee County Jail.
Keokuk School Superintendent Christine Barnes said upon learning of the incident, all of the district’s schools were placed on “soft lockdown.” She said that lasted less than two hours.
A “soft lockdown” is described as a tightening of security.
- Classroom doors are locked
- Outdoor events such as recess and PE are held indoors
- Access to the school is limited
Barnes said staff was also on the look-out for Burns, based on a description provided by Keokuk police.
Barnes said the district informed parents/guardians of the lockdown after it was over. She said the decision was made to wait to make the announcement to avoid having parents/guardians rush to the schools, hampering efforts to limit access to the schools.
