A man has been jailed after sending a series of menacing emails to three all-girls schools in Merseyside, causing children to cry and shake with fear. Darren Rigby, 21, of Worthington Close, Runcorn, admitted three counts of sending communications threatening death or serious harm, possession of an offensive weapon (a police baton), and possession of cannabis. He was sentenced to 28 months in prison at Liverpool Crown Court on June 1.
Threats of Violence
In one email, Rigby claimed: “I’m on my way to the school with a revolver and a machete and I’m going to shoot and stab all your girls.” Another message threatened to “kill and injure as many girls as he possibly could,” adding: “If anyone attempts to stop me they will be shot and I will release a blood agent into the school which will poison you.”
First Incident: Holly Lodge School
The first email was sent to Holly Lodge School in West Derby on January 19 at 1:30 pm. Rigby claimed to be hiding inside with a crossbow and sword, vowing to kill as many girls as possible. The school was placed in lockdown until 3:20 pm when the threat was deemed a hoax. Headteacher Andrew Keen said the incident was unprecedented in his 20-year career, causing a 5% drop in attendance for the rest of the week as parents were reluctant to send their daughters to school.
Second Incident: Greenbank High School
On January 23, Rigby emailed Greenbank High School in Southport, a school whose students were affected by the 2024 Southport attack. The email arrived during lunch hour, forcing staff to quickly gather 1,000 students and implement a “shelter” mode. Headteacher Davina Aspinall described feeling “physically sick” and noted that children were crying, shaking, and asking if the threat was real. Parents rushed to collect their children, creating a difficult situation.
Third Incident: Belvedere Academy
The final threat was sent overnight to Belvedere Academy in Toxteth on January 26. The email claimed Rigby had gained access to the school and was hiding with a crossbow and sword, intending to kill every girl and woman staff member. The academy was locked down at the start of the school day, with students directed to a nearby preparatory school. Headteacher Julie Taylor reported that vulnerable pupils and those with special educational needs struggled to regulate, with 25% of pupils requiring specialist support.
Defense and Sentencing
Defense lawyer Rebecca Smith argued that Rigby’s actions were influenced by cannabis use and extreme alcohol consumption, causing emotional dysregulation. Recorder Eric Lamb acknowledged the turmoil in Rigby’s life but emphasized the severity of the threats, which caused widespread fear and disruption.
