On Feb. 20, Dontae Deshawn Ford, 18, was arrested after making a threat to “shoot up” Smith Station High School in Phenix City.
According to authorities, a school resource officer (SRO) received a call from a staff member at the high school regarding a threatening social media post made by Ford. Shortly after, the officer received a second report from a concerned citizen.
SRO’s and Lee County investigators held a joint investigation with school officials to identify Ford as a suspect and previous student.
Ford was taken into custody at his home, located in the 6000 block of Lee Road 240 in the Phenix City area of Lee County.
While making the arrest, investigators did not find any firearms on or around Ford’s location. Ford was also never on school property at any point.
Ford admitted to the threats and was arrested and charged with one count of making a terrorist threat 1st degree.
Ford is held in the Lee County Detention Center on a $15,000 bond with $2000 cash required. He is also no longer allowed on any school or educational facility property.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office asks anyone with information related to the case to contact them at 334-749-5651 or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-STOP (7867).
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Amanda Machamer, junior in journalism, has been with The Auburn Plainsman since Spring 2025. Machamer previously served as a news writer and assistant news editor, and she is currently serving as the assistant content editor.
