HILLSBORO, Texas — Law enforcement authorities in Hillsboro are investigating a disturbing incident in which an inmate from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) allegedly phoned in a bomb threat to Hillsboro Elementary School.
The threat prompted a full evacuation of the school and a coordinated response from multiple agencies, though no explosive devices were found.
Bomb Threat Made Early Monday Morning
According to the Hillsboro Department of Public Safety, the threat was reported shortly before 8:00 a.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025. A school resource officer stationed at Hillsboro Elementary received notice of a bomb threat, triggering a swift and thorough emergency response.
All students and staff were safely evacuated as bomb squads and police units conducted a room-by-room search of the premises.
Police confirmed that after an extensive search, no explosives or suspicious items were discovered on campus. The school was eventually deemed safe, and normal operations resumed following clearance from law enforcement officials.
Threat Traced to TDCJ Inmate
The investigation led detectives to an unusual and alarming source: a contraband cell phone in a Texas state prison. With the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), investigators were able to trace the origin of the call to the Michael Unit, a state prison located in Tennessee Colony, Texas.
The suspect has been identified as a 31-year-old male inmate currently serving time at the facility. Police allege that the inmate used an illegal mobile phone to make the call directly to the school, delivering the bomb threat in an attempt to disrupt operations.
Detectives believe the incident may have been linked to a 47-year-old female cafeteria worker who was employed at the school at the time. That individual was later arrested on an outstanding warrant unrelated to the threat — specifically, possession of a controlled substance.
Possible Motive Under Review
While the exact motive remains under investigation, authorities are exploring whether the inmate had a personal connection to the arrested cafeteria worker. Hillsboro Police say the two may have had previous contact or a relationship prior to the incident. Investigators are reviewing call logs and communication records for further evidence.
Detective Marcos Quintana of the Hillsboro Police Department is leading the investigation. In a public statement, Quintana emphasized that the threat was considered serious and that law enforcement agencies are treating the matter with the highest priority.
“This is a very serious situation. The use of contraband phones by inmates to threaten the safety of school children and staff is unacceptable,” Quintana said. “We are coordinating closely with TDCJ officials and federal partners to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
Community Response and School District Statement
Parents and community members were shaken by the incident but praised the school district’s quick response. Hillsboro ISD issued a statement expressing gratitude to law enforcement and emergency personnel for their rapid action in ensuring the safety of all students and staff.
“The safety of our children is our top priority,” the district said. “We commend our school officer, administration, and responding agencies for their swift and professional handling of this emergency.”
The district also confirmed that additional security measures would be in place for the remainder of the week, including increased police presence and mental health support for any students or staff affected by the event.
Cell Phones in Prisons Raise Security Concerns
The use of illegal cell phones by inmates is a growing concern for correctional institutions across Texas and the nation. According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, cell phones are considered contraband and are routinely smuggled into prison facilities, often through visitors or corrupt staff members.
The TDCJ has invested in detection equipment and surveillance to locate and confiscate illegal phones, but incidents such as this demonstrate the ongoing challenges faced by prison officials.
In 2024, the department reported more than 7,000 confiscated mobile devices across its facilities.
More information about the TDCJ’s policies and efforts to curb contraband can be found on the Texas Department of Criminal Justice website.
Legal Consequences and Future Action
Authorities have announced that additional charges are being pursued against the inmate. If convicted, he could face federal charges related to making terroristic threats and using a communication device in the commission of a crime.
The investigation also remains open concerning how the contraband cell phone was obtained and whether others were involved in the threat.
The Hillsboro Police Department is asking anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. Detective Marcos Quintana can be reached at 254-582-8406. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
Conclusion
Though no physical harm was caused, the bomb threat to Hillsboro Elementary School has sparked renewed attention to prison security, school safety, and communication vulnerabilities within the TDCJ system.
Thanks to the swift response of local law enforcement and federal agencies, a potential tragedy was averted, but the search for justice and long-term prevention continues.
For official updates or to report suspicious activity, visit the following resources: Texas Department of Criminal Justice
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