West Des Moines, IA

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West Des Moines Police responded to an alleged threat at Valley Southwoods around 11:00 AM May 20, 2026. The issue was reported to school administration who contacted the police. An officer made immediate contact with the suspect who is being identified only as a juvenile student at the school. That suspect was removed from the campus and taken to Juvenile Court Intake. No acts of violence occurred. No weapons were found on campus.

Police cite strong relationships with schools in the city. “We have a School Resource Officer program which has helped tremendously,” said Sergeant Dan Wade. “These open lines of communication really support quick responses to these calls.”

Operations at the school were not interrupted. West Des Moines detectives are completing this investigation. 

Sgt. Dan Wade

Public Information Officer

West Des Moines Police