Online threats have been sweeping upstate New York this week
From the SCSO,
September 17
This morning the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office was made aware that yesterday’s social media threats that circulated through other school districts in the region have now identified the Corning High School and BOCES.
These “swatting hoaxes” were deemed unfounded yesterday, and they appear to be part of the same larger pattern of hoaxes circulating through the northeast United States. We are working closely with our Steuben County School Districts, our School Resource Officers, local and federal law enforcement partners to monitor the situation. We will be increasing visibility at schools countywide as a precaution. There does not appear to be any credibility to these posts.
We will remain vigilant and follow through with all reported threats and take appropriate action. We would remind the community to immediately report any threat or concerning behaviors to law enforcement.
September 16th:
The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office would like to address local concerns surrounding school threats that are being reported through social media and traditional media sources. We have been made aware of school threats that are currently being investigated by our law enforcement partners in Chemung and Broome counties. These threats do not appear to be related, and do not appear to pose any direct threats to any schools in Steuben County.
We will monitor these investigations and take any appropriate action to safeguard our local schools. As always, Sheriff Allard requests that parents remind their students to report any concerning behavior immediately to a responsible adult or appropriate first responders. Sheriff Allard also states, “It is important for parents to discuss concerns with their students, in an age-appropriate way, to ensure they know what to do if they observe any concerning behaviors. Please reinforce with your students that school is still one of the safest places to be outside the comfort of your own homes.”
We will continue to be vigilant. The safety of our schools remains one of our top priorities. Have a safe and enjoyable school year!
