TOP STORY OF THE DAY Brought to you FREE by WICU: Terre Haute man faces allegations of felony intimidation at graduation ceremony

COURTESY PHOTO - Albert Scott Weber, 49, Terre Haute

Clay County Sheriff’s Department officials confirmed late Sunday afternoon a Terre Haute man was taken into custody at the graduation ceremony at Northview High School Saturday evening on allegations of felony intimidation.

CCSD Chief Deputy Josh Clarke said Albert Scott Weber, 49, is currently incarcerated at the Clay County Justice Center on level 6 felony intimidation on school property awaiting formal court proceedings. Weber has a $50,000 cash bond.

Apparently, the arrest occurred during the last of three graduation ceremonies held at Northview High School, which started around 7:30 p.m. When Weber arrived at the ceremony and would not be allowed inside due to the restrictions due to COVID-19, he became highly agitated with the school staff and deputies on site for security at the event.

Weber allegedly began to issue threats that he would harm to the staff, deputies, and those in attendance inside the school, which Clarke said led to his arrest.

Clarke confirmed deputies determined Weber was unarmed.

STAR Ambulance was called to the school because Weber complained of chest pains, but Clarke said he was checked out and cleared by medical staff. Weber was then transported and booked into jail without incident.

“The staff at the school did a really good job. They tried to accommodate everybody,” said Clarke, about the school being placed in lockdown until the situation was resolved to ensure everyone’s safety. “It’s unfortunate that this happened. However, there are rules in place right now to keep everybody healthy and safe, and this ended well.”

Clay Community School Superintendent Jeff Fritz echoed Clarke’s feelings.

“Clay Community Schools was very appreciative of the quick actions and guidance from local and county law enforcement agencies during the NHS Graduation Ceremony,” said Fritz Sunday evening by email. “We are grateful for their commitment to the safety and well-being of our students, staff members, and guests.”

Weber remains in jail with a signed probable cause affidavit on file, awaiting a formal hearing per the court schedule.