Frankfort, Kentucky – The parents of a 19-year-old student killed during a large brawl and shooting at Kentucky State University earlier this month have been arrested in Indiana, accused of making violent threats against the family of the man who fired the fatal shot, according to police and court records.
Authorities say De’Jon Darrell Fox Sr., 38, and Chardnae Cleveland, 37, were taken into custody and charged with felony intimidation following a series of alleged social-media posts that targeted the father of another KSU student. The arrest comes days after a grand jury declined to indict the shooter, citing insufficient evidence.
Arrests Linked to Alleged Online Threats
According to a probable cause affidavit referenced by local media, investigators traced multiple threatening social-media posts to accounts associated with Fox Sr. One post allegedly warned the shooter, “YOU DONTKNOW WHAT U TOOK FROM ME BUT YOU WILL FEEL THE SAME HURT I FEEL.”
Another post, authorities say, went further, stating: “I want his son dead just like mine.”
Police also cited a since-deleted message that reportedly read: “Might drive to Evansville today to see some vicelords!” Investigators noted the reference to the Vice Lords, a criminal street gang known to law enforcement for violence and organized criminal activity.
Based on these statements, prosecutors alleged the posts were intended to place the target in fear of retaliation or serious harm, leading to the felony intimidation charges.
What Happened on Campus
The shooting occurred on December 9 at Kentucky State University in Frankfort. According to the Frankfort Police Department, 48-year-old Jacob Bard had come to campus with his wife after their son reported being attacked following a burglary complaint.
Bard’s attorney, Jonathan Danks, said the parents met with university officials but ultimately believed the school could not ensure their son’s safety. They decided to remove him from campus and take him home.
As a campus police officer escorted the family toward the student’s dorm, authorities say they encountered a growing crowd. What began as a confrontation allegedly escalated into a brawl involving up to 30 people.
Police allege Bard and his son were attacked by the group, prompting Bard to open fire. One student, De’Jon Fox Jr., 19, was killed. Another individual was seriously wounded and transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Shooter Not Indicted by Grand Jury
Bard was initially charged with murder and first-degree assault, but on Tuesday, a grand jury declined to indict him. Prosecutors cited a lack of sufficient evidence, with Bard maintaining that he acted in self-defense during the violent encounter.
Following the decision, Bard’s attorney said his client and family received multiple death threats, which he linked to broader security concerns on campus.
Attorney Alleges Ongoing Threats and Oversight Failures
In a statement released after the grand jury decision and before the parents’ arrest, Danks alleged that individuals involved in the original attack were never charged.
“Despite the many known identities of students and others involved in the vicious attack that day and the multiple armed attacks in the days prior, criminal charges have not been pursued against those individuals,” Danks wrote.
He also claimed that the victim’s mother had publicly called for violence against Bard’s son and sought help from criminal gangs.
University Responds, Security Under Review
Kentucky State University confirmed it is cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
“We remain centered on our students’ safety and well-being,” said KSU President Koffi Akakpo. “The University is enhancing security measures and continuing internal reviews, while taking steps to help ensure our campus environment remains one where all can pursue their education safely.”
The university added that any conduct found to violate campus standards will be addressed through established disciplinary processes.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
Fox Sr. and Cleveland are expected to face court proceedings in Indiana before potential extradition. The intimidation charges remain active, while the broader investigation into the campus violence continues across state and campus jurisdictions.
As the case unfolds, questions remain about campus security, accountability for large-scale brawls, and the legal boundaries between grief, anger, and criminal threats.
Have you experienced safety concerns on a college campus or witnessed how universities handle large disturbances? Share your experiences in the comments below.
