FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — School district officials in DeKalb County confirmed Friday evening the Westlake-Cedar Grove football game had increased security following a "disturbing social media post."
A DeKalb County School District spokesman said parents had seen the post earlier and reported it to officials in the Fulton County district, where the game is being played with Westlake as the home team.
The district could not confirm any further details about the post. Fulton County indicated it originated from a DeKalb student who "will not be allowed to participate in nor attend the game."
Nicole Lewis has a senior at Westlake High School and doesn't mind the extra security.
“If it means that we’re going to be safe, our kids are going to be safe, and we enjoy the game and have a good time tonight, then I’m totally okay with it," Lewis said.
Errol and Elenda Lampkin's son is the defensive line coach for Westlake High School. The couple hadn't heard about the threats but said the added security was welcomed.
“It makes us feel safer, better, and able to enjoy the game, focus on that, and hopefully those things will be worked out and taken care of. It gives you an extra level of ease I imagine," Errol Lampkin said.
The game started at 7:30 p.m. Measures such as enhanced security, including security checkpoints, a clear bag policy and limited attendance were put in place.
Carl Green, the Westlake athletic director, tweeted earlier in the day that the game was sold out and no one would be allowed on campus without a ticket.
"Strictly enforced!" the athletic director wrote.
Fulton County Schools issued the following statement:
After becoming aware of the social media posts, FCS police and Westlake High School staff immediately worked with DeKalb County School officials to address the threat.
Due to the threat, increased security parameters will be used for the game, including metal detectors, additional lighting and security personnel. Ticket sales will be limited to ensure only those with a ticket to the game are on campus. FCS had already implemented a clear bookbag policy for all sports events this year.
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