Local student charged with making criminal threats

A high school student was arrested after police said he allegedly made criminal threats last week.

The Imperial Police Department was contacted Friday, February 16th, by Imperial High School officials regarding a potential threat to students. Imperial Police Department detectives were dispatched to IHS to interview witnesses and a potential suspect.

After further investigation, detectives determined the threat was valid and one person was taken into custody. Karl Manaig, an 18-year-old senior at IHS, was arrested and charged with making criminal threats. Manaig was later booked into Imperial County Jail. His bail was set and the suspect is now out on bond. Law enforcement continues to monitor the situation. School officials did say Manaig is suspended. Suspensions can last up to five days. If there is a chance of a student being expelled the expulsion is extended until a hearing is held. The school did not want to comment on Manaig’s case.

Due to the ongoing investigation the Imperial Police Department cannot release further details at this time. What they can share is that the initial threat of danger to the students and staff has been lifted. Law enforcement continues to work with school officials. The city has increased patrols and presence on campus. They want to emphasize that the safety or residents and staff is their highest priority.

Officials said students alerted the staff about these threats, and they consider them heroes in this situation. Students are encouraged to be diligent in letting the staff know what is going on at all times.