Friday The 13th School Threat Hoaxes Across Southland

A "concerning email" sent to a number of school districts around the country prompted Southland authorities to increase local patrols Friday at various campuses, but no credible threats had been found, officials said.

"Last night, a concerning email was sent to numerous school districts throughout the nation, (and) this included some school districts within the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's jurisdiction," a sheriff's statement said.

"While there are no specific or credible threats received by the LASD or those school districts, we take every potential threat very seriously and are working with the affected school districts within our jurisdiction to help ensure the safety and security of students and staff," the statement said.

Schools in Orange County also experienced similar threats, both over the phone and through email, according to Orange County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman Carrie Braun, and Huntington Beach Police Department Information Officer Angela Bennett. All threats were being investigated, but were not considered credible.

Among the schools affected was Golden Valley High in Santa Clarita, where a number of parents had contacted authorities.

"The LASD is increasing patrol checks in many areas and our local sheriff's stations are working with those school districts that have received this non-credible threat," the statement said. "We at the LASD are maintaining a heightened state of situational awareness and remain vigilant in the protection of our communities and schools."

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation was urged to call their local law enforcement organization, or Crime Stoppers at (800) 222- TIPS.

Renee Schiavone Photo