Santa Rosa man arrested for threats that locked down Penngrove Elementary

On October 14, 2024, a Santa Rosa man was arrested following a threat that led to the lockdown of Penngrove Elementary School in California. The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at 11:36 a.m. regarding a potential threat specific to the school. In response, law enforcement, including K9 units and SWAT team members, secured the area to ensure the safety of students and staff. The school was evacuated in a controlled manner, with students being escorted to a reunification point for their safety. Authorities identified the suspect as 47-year-old Kevin Harrington, who was believed to be in the South Lake Tahoe area. With assistance from local police departments, Harrington was located and arrested in Nevada. He faces serious charges, including felony criminal threats and possession of a stolen vehicle, and is currently held on a $500,000 bail. The incident highlights the importance of swift law enforcement response to threats in educational settings, ensuring the safety of children and staff. The coordinated effort between multiple law enforcement agencies demonstrates a commitment to public safety and effective crisis management. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to extradite Harrington to Sonoma County to face charges. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges schools face regarding safety and the need for vigilance in protecting students from potential threats.