Districts struggling to stem hoax threats following Michigan school shooting

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (Fort Wayne’s NBC) - Area schools are trying to stem a surge of hoax threats and social media rumors that have followed last month’s deadly shooting on a campus in Michigan.

In some instances, the situation has led to a cancellation of in-person classes or a school event, as administrators take precautions to ensure students and staff are safe. But the effects can be serious and long-lasting for a child who, jokingly or not, initiates such a threat.

On Thursday, the superintendent of Southwest Allen County Schools shared a message with parents regarding the problem. Park Ginder noted that, in just the past week, “SACS officials and law enforcement have investigated three perceived threats.” One of them resulted in the postponement of a middle school dance.

Ginder said the district’s approach “includes taking all reported threats seriously, acting promptly and investigating” along with police. He asks parents to speak with their children and advise them that the consequences can include suspension, expulsion and even criminal charges.

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