Text message threat

Q: I have a couple of questions for you. First, how easy is it to be hired by the SBPD and do I have a better chance being a MP in the Army Reserves? My other question is, I have this former friend of mine and he was dating this girl that was also a really good friend who I was involved with too. Later I had this text from him saying that he was going to jump me and mess up my property, but in more aggressive words. I saved the texts in my phone and I was wondering if I filed a police report what would happen? How would they make sure he does not show up and try anything stupid? And will he get any punishment at all? Thanks.

A: As for getting hired, it is a very competetive process. College, military experience, and volunteerism are all things that are looked at favorably to help you advance. As for joining the military, I can't answer what your chances are. Why not try for both? Be sure to check out the FAQs on our jobs page, which may help too.

As for your other question, with the basic facts you present, a basic police 'incident report' may be taken, primarily based upon what *may* happen. This report is typically just held in our computer system to serve as a official documentation of the incident, and often no further follow up is done. Unless another criminal act occurred, this would typically be all the action that would be taken for this type of incident.

To report a threat, some basic criteria is looked at- what specifically is said? is there specific information on means, time, method, etc.? Have you had violent encounters in the past? My suggestion in your case is to save the texts as documentation in case it would be needed later, and avoid contact (phone, text, face to face, etc) with the party.