Local Law Enforcement Bombarded With Barrage Of Bomb Threats

TAMPA BAY, FL -- A barrage of bomb threats sent to businesses, colleges and news outlets Thursday are tying up Tampa Bay law enforcement agencies.

Though none were deemed credible and no devices have been found, the FBI has confirmed that bomb threats were sent nationwide Thursday afternoon demanding cryptocurrency (Bitcoin) payments.

See related story: Bomb Threats Emailed Nationwide Demanding Bitcoin Payment

Nevertheless, law enforcement agencies are obligated to investigate any threat.

The St. Petersburg Police Department said it is actively investigating four bomb threats sent to businesses.

"All four appear to be connected to similar threats received across the country," said police spokeswoman Yolanda Fernandez. "We do not believe the public is in danger, but we are working with our law enforcement partners to share and investigate these threats thoroughly."

The Pinellas Park Police Department is actively investigating three bomb threats received throughout the course of the day, all directed at businesses, according to spokesman Lt. Adam Geissenberger.

The Tampa Police Department has received eight reports of bomb threats including one at a charter school, two at law firms along with an industrial equipment business, a construction company and an architectural firm.

"The email message appears to be similar to others reported around the state and nation," said police spokesman Steve Hegarty. "As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities that could represent a threat to public safety."

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