Darren Rigby, 21, was sentenced to 28 months in prison after sending threatening emails to three all-girls schools in Merseyside, England. His messages included threats to harm students with weapons, causing significant distress and lockdowns at the schools. The incidents occurred between January 19 and January 26, 2023.

• 01Darren Rigby sent threatening emails to Holly Lodge School, Greenbank High School, and Belvedere Academy, claiming he was armed and intended to harm students.
• 02The threats caused panic, leading to lockdowns and significant anxiety among students and parents, with attendance dropping by 5% at Holly Lodge School following the incident.
• 03Rigby was sentenced to 28 months after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including sending communications threatening death and possession of an offensive weapon.
• 04The headteachers reported severe emotional distress among students, particularly those with special educational needs, due to the lockdown experiences.
• 05Rigby's defense cited his emotional turmoil and substance use as factors contributing to his behavior, though this did not excuse his actions.

The threats caused significant fear and anxiety among students and parents, disrupting school attendance and creating a sense of insecurity within the community.