Young adult charged with threats to middle school via Facebook

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 19-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been charged with making threats against Grant Middle School, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

The criminal complaint was filed today, after which federal authorities took Nathanial Salinas into custody. He is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jason B. Libby at 2 p.m. tomorrow.

The charges allege Salinas posted a threatening message on Facebook. On Oct. 9, Facebook user “Natedawg Salinas” allegedly posted a profanity-laden comment indicating he planned to shoot people at the school, specifically mentioning a Spanish teacher. He followed the comment with an abbreviation for “just joking.”

Law enforcement identified that user as Salinas, according to the complaint.

Salinas made the comments in response to another user who indicated problems with the Corpus Christi Independent School District (CCISD).

Following the threat, the charges allege authorities placed Grant Middle School on lockdown, causing fear amongst the students and their families. The Spanish teacher indicated shock and fear for their life, according to the complaint.

If convicted, Salinas faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

The FBI, Corpus Christi Independent School District Police Department and the Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany L. Jensen is prosecuting the case.   

A complaint is an accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.