A Michigan mother has been sentenced after twice making false bomb threats targeting her daughter’s high school in the Detroit area.
The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office said in a Jan. 15 release that Crystal Royster, 42, was sentenced by Judge Michael E. Servitto.
Royster received 18 months of probation, with the first 14 days to be served in the Macomb County Jail. Officials said she received credit for three days already served.
Under the terms of her probation, Royster is barred from contacting victims connected to the case and must notify the school before entering school grounds. She is also required to complete a Class A impulse-control course.
Prosecutors said Royster made two false bomb reports to Lake Shore High School in St. Clair Shores, Mich., in March 2025. The calls allegedly followed a dispute after her daughter was not allowed to participate in a school play.
Authorities said the student was not permitted to take part because of school policy after she became sick and left early that day.
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After the threats were reported, more than 700 people were evacuated from the building, and St. Clair Shores Police—along with other agencies—responded, the prosecutor’s office said.
“The defendant was sentenced today for making a false bomb report that resulted in a significant emergency response,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in the release. “While the court determined that probation was the appropriate outcome, her actions nonetheless caused disruption and concern within the community.”
Royster was charged with making a false report or threat of a bomb—a felony punishable by up to four years—and pleaded guilty in November 2025, prosecutors said.
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According to the U.S. Department of Justice, someone found guilty of making false statements or threats “willfully and maliciously or with reckless disregard for the safety of human life” could face penalties of up to $5,000 or five years in prison.
While the charge is not common, similar incidents have occurred. In 2024, a third grader faced criminal charges after allegedly claiming bombs had been planted at Clearview High School and Durling Middle School in Lorain, Ohio, prompting school closures. The student was charged with inducing panic in connection with the social media posts, according to local outlet WOIO.
