School shooting threats part of nationwide hoax
POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) - The Pocatello Police Department reports there is a hoax caller from out of our area calling agencies and posting possible acts of violence online.
Police say these are hoax calls and social media posts showing Pocatello Police Officers at a school investing acts of violence, and this post is fabricated.
Officials say these are repeated calls and posts that are being pushed around multiple states and jurisdictions.
The FBI is investigating.
According to police, there are no active credible threats at this time; however, officials say to remain vigilant and contact the police department if any suspicious activity is observed.
The Pocatello/Chubbuck School District released the following statement:
Dear PCSD 25 families and staff:
District administration has been made aware of several “swatting” incidents happening simultaneously throughout the nation, including close to home in the Twin Falls School District. The district also received reports about a fake news story circulating that fabricates a fatality incident at Highland High School. These reports are false. What is “swatting”? Swatting is the action or practice of making a prank call to emergency services in an attempt to bring about the dispatch of a large number of armed police officers to a particular address. These situations can create fear and chaos. Please know that the district is aware, vigilant, and in constant contact with law enforcement partners to address any threats made to local schools. Please do not contact the schools about these rumors. Further information or updates will be distributed via official district communications.
Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield released the following statement:
“I am aware that several schools were impacted today by threats of violence, and that the threats do not appear to be valid. State Department of Education staff have been in touch with districts and will continue to stay apprised of the situation. I’m thankful for the quick action from school administrators and law enforcement to ensure the safety of students in the affected schools.”
