Mount Clemens, Michigan, January 16, 2026
A Detroit woman, Crystal Royster, has been sentenced to 18 months of probation after pleading guilty to making false bomb threats against Lake Shore High School. The threats were made following her daughter’s exclusion from a school play due to illness. The incident led to the evacuation of over 700 individuals, highlighting the serious consequences of such actions. Royster also faces additional conditions during her probation, including no contact with victims and completion of an impulse control class. This case underscores the ongoing issue of false threats in Macomb County.
Detroit Woman Sentenced for False Bomb Threat at Macomb County High School
Mount Clemens, Michigan – A 42-year-old Detroit woman has been sentenced to 18 months of probation after pleading guilty to making false bomb threats against Lake Shore High School in St. Clair Shores. The threats were made in March 2025 following her daughter’s exclusion from a school play due to illness.
Details of the Incident
On March 12, 2025, Crystal Royster made two false bomb threat calls to Lake Shore High School after her daughter was not permitted to participate in the school play. The school’s policy prohibits students from engaging in extracurricular activities if they leave school early due to illness. In response to the threats, over 700 individuals were evacuated from the school premises. A thorough search by law enforcement confirmed that no explosives were present. Royster was charged with one count of False Report or Threat of a Bomb, a four-year felony, and pleaded guilty in November 2025. On January 8, 2026, she was sentenced to 18 months of probation, including 14 days in the Macomb County Jail, with credit for three days served. Additional conditions of her probation include no contact with the victims, prior notification to the school before entering school grounds, and completion of an impulse control class.
Background on School Threats in Macomb County
False bomb threats have been a recurring issue in Macomb County. In 2024, the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office reported 325 incidents related to school threats or crimes, including 4 bomb threats. These incidents have led to evacuations and heightened security measures in schools. The community and authorities continue to emphasize the importance of reporting such threats to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Legal Consequences of Making False Threats
Making false bomb threats is a serious offense with severe legal consequences. In Michigan, individuals found guilty of communicating a threat of terrorism can face up to 20 years in prison. Additionally, those convicted of calling in a bomb threat may be sentenced to up to 4 years in prison. Such actions not only disrupt communities but also divert valuable resources from addressing real emergencies.
Resources for Reporting Threats
Residents are encouraged to report any threats, violence, weapons, or bullying to ensure the safety of the community. Reports can be made to local authorities, school resource officers, or through the OK2SAY program, which allows individuals to report concerns confidentially. For emergencies, always dial 911.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Crystal Royster serves as a reminder of the serious consequences associated with making false threats. It underscores the importance of adhering to school policies and the need for community vigilance in maintaining safe educational environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the reason for the false bomb threats made by Crystal Royster?
Crystal Royster made two false bomb threat calls to Lake Shore High School after her daughter was not permitted to participate in the school play due to illness. The school’s policy prohibits students from engaging in extracurricular activities if they leave school early because of sickness.
What were the legal consequences for Crystal Royster?
Crystal Royster was sentenced to 18 months of probation, including 14 days in the Macomb County Jail, with credit for three days served. Additional conditions of her probation include no contact with the victims, prior notification to the school before entering school grounds, and completion of an impulse control class.
How common are false bomb threats in Macomb County?
In 2024, the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office reported 325 incidents related to school threats or crimes, including 4 bomb threats. These incidents have led to evacuations and heightened security measures in schools.
What are the legal consequences of making false bomb threats in Michigan?
In Michigan, individuals found guilty of communicating a threat of terrorism can face up to 20 years in prison. Additionally, those convicted of calling in a bomb threat may be sentenced to up to 4 years in prison.
How can residents report threats or suspicious activities?
Residents are encouraged to report any threats, violence, weapons, or bullying to ensure the safety of the community. Reports can be made to local authorities, school resource officers, or through the OK2SAY program, which allows individuals to report concerns confidentially. For emergencies, always dial 911.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | False bomb threats made to Lake Shore High School in St. Clair Shores, Michigan |
| Perpetrator | Crystal Royster, 42-year-old woman from Detroit |
| Reason for Threats | Daughter excluded from school play due to illness |
| Legal Outcome | 18 months probation, 14 days in jail, no contact with victims, prior notification to school before entering grounds, completion of impulse control class |
| Community Impact | Evacuation of over 700 individuals, significant disruption, and concern within the community |
| Legal Consequences in Michigan | Up to 20 years in prison for communicating a threat of terrorism, up to 4 years in prison for calling in a bomb threat |
| Reporting Resources | Local authorities, school resource officers, OK2SAY program, emergency number 911 |
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