Facebook Threat Not Directed At Sarasota High, Police Chief Says

SARASOTA, FL – A threat of violence circulated Wednesday evening on social media platforms throughout Sarasota originated from a Facebook account in Springfield, Ohio, according to Sarasota Police.

On Feb. 22, police received word that screenshots of a Facebook post indicating there would be a shooting at “SHS” were spreading among parents and students of Sarasota High School.

When police investigated, they discovered the reference to “SHS” did not refer to Sarasota High School.

“There are no threats against Sarasota High School or to any students or faculty,” Police Chief Bernadette DiPino said.

Nevertheless, she thanked residents for alerting the police right away about the threatening social media post.

“The police department and Sarasota County Schools appreciate the faculty and students reporting this social media post immediately,” she said. “The Sarasota Police Department takes each and every threat against our city and schools seriously.”

Sarasota Police have contacted Springfield, Ohio, police investigators to alert them that the threat was posted by someone in their city. Police in Springfield have concluded that the threat is a hoax.

In the meantime, DiPino urges residents who see what appears to be a threat to call 911 or the police department at (941) 316-1199.

Image via Facebook