Sheriff Craig Webre has issued a warning about threats and harassment directed toward public officials. Recent social media posts regarding an incident at Sixth Ward Middle School have fueled hostility and provoked violent rhetoric toward public officials and school administrators. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating harassing messages and phone calls for possible criminal charges.

“Let me be clear: threats of violence are not protected speech,” said Sheriff Webre. “We absolutely support everyone’s right to free speech and voicing their opinion on any given topic, but threats of violence and harassment are crimes that are not protected under the First Amendment. There is a clear line between free speech and criminal behavior, and anyone who crosses that line will be held accountable.”

This week, deputies have been made aware of several harassing phone calls and messages received by school officials at Sixth Ward Middle School, the Lafourche Parish School District, and elected members of the Lafourche Parish School Board.

“We’ve seen far too often how extreme rhetoric can escalate into real-world violence,” said Sheriff Webre. “I urge everyone to take a step back, engage respectfully, and allow for productive dialogue rather than destructive behavior. Our community will grow stronger if we can disagree with civility and respect for one another.”