University of Cincinnati Targeted by Snapchat Threats, Man Arrested

A 22-year-old man, Jason Lamar Dowdy, has been arrested and charged after allegedly making violent threats on Snapchat targeting students at the University of Cincinnati (UC). The threats, which referenced Dabney Hall, prompted a swift response from UC police and resulted in multiple calls from concerned students and parents.

Details of the Threats

The incident began on February 3rd, when Dowdy responded to a Snapchat post in a group chat about finding a “freaky girl” at Dabney Hall. According to court documents, Dowdy’s subsequent comments escalated quickly, including statements such as, “On my son I’ll receive everybody in this group killed if it gets that serious,” and “Report me that’s not stopping bullets wtf.” He also allegedly threatened, “Take all the evidence you seek on my granny that’s not stopping the building from burning down or nun.” [Source: Fox19]

Police Response and Arrest

UC police received numerous calls from students residing in Dabney Hall and from parents who had seen the threatening posts on social media. [Source: Fox19] When officers attempted to arrest Dowdy, he allegedly tried to flee although being handcuffed, leading to an additional charge of obstructing official business. [Source: WKRC]

Charges Filed

Dowdy is facing charges of inducing panic and obstructing official business. [Source: WKRC] He was booked into the Hamilton County Justice Center and held overnight without bond. [Source: Fox19]

Investigation and Further Action

The investigation is ongoing, and another suspect is expected to appear in court next week. [Source: WKRC] Police charged Dowdy based on an “audio confession” as well as witness statements and calls from students and parents. [Source: Fox19]

Legal Ramifications

Under Ohio law, making threats that cause public alarm is a serious offense. The state’s inducing panic statute carries penalties that can increase when a school or university is involved. [Source: Hoodline]