A troubling case has emerged in Atlantic County that touches our local school community in deeply concerning ways. Lucas P. McCooley, a Galloway Township resident and husband of Pinelands Regional School District Superintendent Dr. Melissa McCooley, remains in custody following allegations that he made targeted death threats against two individuals connected to our schools.
According to documents from the Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office, McCooley is accused of threatening to kill specific members of the school community, including what investigators believe to be Troy Henderson, the principal of Pinelands Regional High School, and August Daleo, president of the Pinelands Board of Education.
Disturbing Evidence Uncovered
The allegations paint a chilling picture. Prosecutors say McCooley wrote names directly on bullets recovered by law enforcement—specifically "Troy" and "Algie"—which investigators later connected to Henderson and Daleo. The affidavit alleges McCooley made repeated and graphic threats, including statements about going to one individual's home and shooting him. These threats were reportedly captured in audio recordings and supported by physical evidence.
The case originated from a domestic violence incident on April 12 that led to a restraining order and the seizure of multiple firearms from McCooley's residence. During that search, authorities recovered the marked ammunition, along with a handgun and an AR-style rifle.
It's important to note that domestic violence cases involve sensitive circumstances, and victims deserve to be taken seriously and treated with dignity. Authorities have not publicly identified the victim in this matter.
Additional Charges Filed
The seized AR-style rifle was later determined to meet the legal definition of an illegal assault firearm under New Jersey law due to features including a detachable magazine, pistol grip, and threaded barrel, resulting in a second-degree weapons charge.
Prosecutors further allege that McCooley violated the restraining order just days after it was issued by contacting the victim through social media, leading to additional charges of contempt of a court order and harassment.
McCooley has been charged but not convicted. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. A pre-indictment conference is scheduled for Tuesday, May 13 in Atlantic County Superior Court.
Impact on Pinelands Regional School District
The arrest has drawn renewed attention to ongoing administrative matters at Pinelands Regional School District. Dr. Melissa McCooley was placed on paid administrative leave following a March 23 executive session—weeks before her husband's arrest.
Board officials have emphasized that this administrative action is not a disciplinary finding of wrongdoing. Under the terms of that action, she has been barred from district property, prohibited from contacting staff, and denied access to district systems while an internal review is conducted. Dr. Kimberly Clark has been appointed as acting superintendent to ensure our schools continue operating smoothly during this process.
Business Administrator Amanda Miller and IT Supervisor Kevin Meara were also placed on paid administrative leave as part of the broader situation, according to prior board proceedings.
Board President Responds
August Daleo, the Pinelands Board of Education president who is allegedly one of the individuals threatened, declined to comment in detail on the case. He said he first learned of the allegations from law enforcement.
"I'm letting the legal system handle it," Daleo said. "When I first heard about it, I was very shocked. I really don't know what to say about it."
The case first came to light through an anonymous tip to media outlets, with details later confirmed through court filings and official records. As this situation continues to unfold, our community's thoughts are with all those affected, particularly the students, staff, and families of Pinelands Regional School District navigating this difficult time.
