Who Is Nathan James Cruz?
Nathan James Cruz, 17 years old, of San Antonio in Texas, made headlines recently for his disturbing threats about school shootings. The teen was charged with both misdemeanor and felony charges for threatening terrorist acts against public figures as well as his family. Cruz, who is 18 years old, is the cousin to Salvador Ramos. He was responsible for the Robb Elementary School shootings in Uvalde in Texas 2022.
Why was Nathan James Cruz detained?
Nathan was arrested after his mother alerted San Antonio Police Department to his alarming remarks. Various news outlets obtained the affidavit that confirmed Cruz told his sister he intended to “do what Ramos did” He also threatened to hurt his sister and shoot at a school. Cruz was caught on camera trying to buy an AR-15, the same kind of gun used by Ramos, during a telephone call.
Is he related to Uvalde Shooter Salvador Ramos?
Cruz and Salvador Ramos are cousins. Ramos is responsible for the most deadly school shooting in U.S. History. He killed 19 students and 2 teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. Cruz’s threats and their close familial relationship have intensified the public and media concern surrounding his arrest.
What is the exact nature of his charges, and what penalties could he face?
Bexar County Central Magistrates records show that Cruz was charged with a third-degree felony, for making terroristic threat against the public and a Class A misdemeanor, for doing the exact same thing against family members. The bond set for all of these charges is $160,000. He could face severe legal consequences including imprisonment if convicted.
What has been the official and public response to the Uvalde shootings?
Both the public and government officials were shocked by the tragic events that occurred at Robb Elementary in Uvalde. The response time of law enforcement, which led to a delay in over an hour, before Ramos could be confronted and neutralized was criticized. After the Uvalde attack, Texas Governor Greg Abbott refused to support calls for tighter gun laws and was re-elected in 2018 with a large margin. The investigation by the state into the Uvalde incident, focusing in particular on the police response delay, continues.
What steps are being taken to protect against similar threats?
Nathan James Cruz’ arrest highlights the importance for community vigilance, and quick action. The law enforcement agencies stress the importance of promptly reporting any suspicious behavior. Schools and communities also work to improve security protocols and threat assessment measures. In order to prevent such tragedies, discussions on mental health, gun control and community-based interventions programs are at the forefront.
