2 Idaho teens face terrorism charges after police say they planned a riot in Jerome

Two teen boys were arrested Monday after the Jerome Police Department said they posted a call for violent protests on social media.

The 17-year-old from Gooding County and the 16-year-old from Jerome face charges of conspiracy to commit an act of terrorism and attempting to start a riot. The boys’ names have not been released.

The post on Snapchat was reported to Jerome Police at about 10:45 a.m. Monday and called for a protest in downtown Jerome.

“With violence occurring throughout the country over the last several days, the post was taken very seriously and an investigation was launched into the post while also working with other law enforcement partners to prepare for a possible violent event,” Jerome Police Chief Dan Hall said in a statement.

The teens were arrested Monday afternoon.

“The members of Jerome Police Department share the sorrow and outrage of our community and our nation over the death of George Floyd while in police custody and we support the right of people to engage in peaceful expression in such matters of deep concern,” Hall said. “However, we are also committed to the safety of our community and will continue to be on guard for those who would commit violent acts against our citizens or their property.”

This story was originally published June 2, 2020 at 11:08 AM.