Fake Wanted Poster Alleges Citrus County Student is Sought for Murder

CITRUS – Officials with the Citrus County Sheriff's Office is investigating a disturbing form of social media bullying, that has targeted a local student.

According to reports, investigators became aware of a graphic that has been circulating on the popular app, Snapchat. The graphic contains a picture of a Citrus County student, along with CCSO's agency logo and the logo from Citrus County government. The graphic is styled to mimic a "Wanted" bulletin and characterizes the pictured student as a criminal. It details fictional information that the student is a wanted murderer, is on the loose, and indicates there is a reward for the student.

Officials provided the following statement: "Our office wants to make it very clear that this graphic is fake and not an official release. The student depicted in this fabricated graphic is not wanted for any crimes or being investigated for any criminal activity. At this time CCSO detectives, alongside officials with the Citrus County School Board, are investigating the origin of this graphic."

Officials are asking that parents speak to their children regarding the circulation of this graphic and advise them not to share it.