MANSFIELD, OH – A Mansfield woman was arrested early Friday morning following a series of concerning social media posts threatening violence at Clear Fork School.
Tamara D. Sylvester-Neighbors, 29, was taken into custody at her residence around 6 a.m. and booked into the Richland County Jail on a second-degree felony charge of inducing panic after a tip regarding a Facebook posts was reported.
The incident began on January 24, 2025, when the Richland County Sheriff’s Office received a report about Sylvester-Neighbors’ alarming social media activity. According to the report, Sylvester-Neighbors made multiple posts referencing violence, including one that mentioned bringing a firearm to a Clear Fork school. One post specifically stated:
“What the [expletive] is an open door policy? Me asking politely. Also, I can bring in a football to the secretary. Could easily bring a gun and shoot Ms. Sally in the head.”
Although Sylvester-Neighbors added in the comments, “Not a threat,” and tagged the Bellville Police Department.
Deputies worked quickly to locate Sylvester-Neighbors. They reviewed her social media posts, interviewed concerned citizens, and coordinated with local police departments in Bellville and Butler.
When deputies arrived at Sylvester-Neighbors’ residence, she admitted to making the posts but denied intending harm. Instead, she claimed her posts were intended to highlight security vulnerabilities at the schools. Despite her explanation, Sylvester-Neighbors was arrested and transported to the Richland County Jail.
Interim Superintendent John Thomas of the Clear Fork Valley Local School District assured parents and community members in an email:
“The school was made aware that an individual posted remarks on social media that were threatening and harassing in nature to our students, staff, and school. Law enforcement was called, and the situation has been resolved. As always, the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and school is our highest priority.”
In addition, Clear Fork High School Principal Jennifer Klaus issued a formal ban prohibiting Sylvester-Neighbors from entering school property or attending extracurricular activities.
Sylvester-Neighbors is currently being held pending arraignment on the felony charge of inducing panic. The Richland County Prosecutor’s Office has recommended a $7,500 bond for the second-degree felony charge.
Sheriff Sheldon commended the collaborative effort between law enforcement and school officials, saying, “The dedication of our staff, along with the cooperation of Clear Fork Schools and local police departments, ensured the safety of students and staff while resolving this situation quickly.”
This incident highlights the importance of immediate action in addressing threats of violence in schools, with law enforcement urging community members to report any suspicious activity immediately.
