Sheriff’s Dept actively investigating incident at PDHS

Students have been back in class just one week, but trouble is already brewing at one valley school.

News Channel 3 has learned exclusively of an active investigation at Palm Desert High School, confirmed by law enforcement and school officials.

Palm Desert High School students say an inappropriate photo of a classmate made its way to some people it wasn’t intended for.

News Channel 3: “What is the picture?”

“A nude,” said one freshman, who didn’t see the picture but says she knows the students involved.

We’re told the photos made their way to some student athletes. Members of the Varsity high school football team told us deputies recently confiscated some players’ phones over a photo.

The sheriff’s department confirms it’s investigating an incident at the school, but will not say what.

The district is also keeping quiet, but said its actions will be based on the completion of the investigation.

The situation is drawing concern from parents and students, not only about photo privacy and ‘sexting,’ but how easily phones can transmit sensitive information through photo sharing apps. Students say SnapChat may be involved.

But what some students don’t realize: if an inappropriate photo of a minor is sent by phone, anyone who receives or distributes the photo could find themselves open to charges.

“If you’re sent it, obviously you can’t help it though, unless you are asking for it,” the student said. “It is a good idea to make that illegal because it’s not fair to the girl.”