News Summary
Ashley Pardo, 33, was arrested for allegedly aiding her 13-year-old son in a disturbing scheme involving potential mass violence at Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School. The investigation, triggered by alarming drawings made by the boy, revealed plans that included tactical gear and an improvised explosive device. Despite previous warnings regarding her son’s behavior, Pardo reportedly facilitated his access to weapons. The case raises urgent questions about parental responsibility and youth violence in schools, with ongoing investigations ensuring student safety remains a priority.
San Antonio – Ashley Pardo, a 33-year-old mother, was arrested on May 12 after being accused of aiding her 13-year-old son in a plot of “targeted mass violence” at Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School. Pardo faces charges of aiding in the commission of terrorism based on investigations that revealed her alleged involvement in her son’s disturbing plans.
The investigation commenced when police were alerted to chilling drawings made by the boy, which depicted a detailed map of the school labeled “suicide route” alongside a sketch of a rifle. Initial discussions with the boy regarding these drawings took place in January, raising red flags about his mental state and intentions. His troubling behavior escalated in April when he was suspended from school for researching the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings, an incident that claimed over 50 lives.
After being assigned to an alternative school following his suspension, the boy returned to Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School on May 8. However, the situation took a serious turn on May 12, when a relative discovered an improvised explosive device, live ammunition, and firearm magazines in the child’s possession. This alarming discovery prompted the relative to contact law enforcement authorities, leading to further investigations.
Reports indicate that the boy claimed his mother had purchased the ammunition, tactical gear, and even military fatigues in exchange for babysitting his younger siblings. On the day of the arrest, witnesses noted that the boy arrived at school wearing tactical clothing and a mask but left the campus shortly after. Following his departure, school officials issued an alert to enhance security measures on campus and initiated sweeps for potential explosive devices.
School principal Felismina Martinez assured parents that all potential threats are taken seriously and that the safety of the students remains the top priority. Despite the alarming circumstances, records reveal that Pardo did not express concern about her son’s behavior and reportedly supported his violent artistic expressions.
Pardo’s awareness of her son’s concerning conduct is further underscored by court documents, which indicate prior interactions with law enforcement, Child Protective Services, and school personnel regarding the boy’s behavior. It has been reported that the child had a fascination with mass shooters, including writing a note listing the names of infamous perpetrators and inscribing “14 words” and “SS” symbols, which are known to be linked to extremist ideologies.
Following her arrest, Pardo was released from custody after posting a $75,000 bond. The next scheduled hearing for Pardo is set for July 17. The ramifications of this case raise critical questions about parental responsibility, mental health, and school safety in an era marked by rising concerns surrounding youth violence.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to fully address the implications of this serious incident. It highlights the importance of vigilance in identifying potential risks and ensuring environments where children can learn and grow safely, without fear of violence. School officials are committed to continuing to prioritize safety measures and support for students following this incident.
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Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: Mass Shooting
- ABC News
- Google Search: Mass Violence in Schools
- KENS 5 News
- Google Scholar: School Violence Intervention
- NBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Terrorism
- Fox 7 Austin
- Google News: School Safety
