A 31-year-old Florida man is in custody following several erratic social media posts threatening a mass shooting.
Detectives were alerted to the social media posts by residents concerned over written statements made by Andrew Pierce Phillips, 31, which included comments of a “mass shooting,” and that he was “planning this …. for years.”
Other social media messages showed Phillips seeking to purchase a gun.
Detectives located Phillips at his place of employment in Palatka and placed him under arrest. During a search of his residence on Palm Avenue, no firearms were found. Phillips has an injunction and cannot legally possess a firearm.
“In light of the increased violence we have seen by those with mental health issues, this is a perfect example of see something, say something,” Sheriff H.D. ‘Gator’ DeLoach said. “After talking to people who know this individual, he is clearly having his own personal internal struggle. He is now clearly on our radar and we will do everything to ensure the community’s safety as well as his own well-being.”
Phillips was arrested and charged with sending a written threat to conduct a mass shooting, a second-degree felony. He is currently being held at the Putnam County Jail on no bond.
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