By Jakob Thorington | Arizona Capitol Times
Key points:
- Lydia and Cassandra Hernandez issue separate denials
- Cassandra Hernandez demands apology and independent investigation
- Phoenix Union School District is reviewing evidence, considering legal options
A Democrat in the Arizona House of Representatives and her daughter are denying allegations from Maryvale High School that the two attempted to bring a boxcutter onto its campus to test its security systems following a fatal stabbing that occurred at the school.
Maryvale High School released a statement on Aug. 27 alleging Rep. Lydia Hernandez, D-Phoenix, and her daughter, Cassandra Hernandez, attempted to bring the weapon onto school grounds in an attempt to test the school’s metal detectors and school safety systems.
Maryvale students returned to school on Monday following the death of 16-year-old Michael Montoya II on Aug. 19 after he was stabbed by another student, Chris Aguilar. The school postponed classes for the rest of the week.
“You cannot believe everything you read online. But people rely on official statements from public entities more than most internet comments. Public entities should conduct an adequate investigation before publishing accusations of criminal conduct. Failing to do so risks causing great harm to an innocent person’s reputation and also risks subjecting the public entity to significant liability for defamation.”
