Threat Toward Harford Tech To Increase Police Presence: Sheriff

BEL AIR, MD — Police presence will be increased at Harford Technical High School and others on Wednesday following a threat made by a student, according to the Harford County Sheriff's Office. Authorities say they have interviewed the student and the student's family and determined the threats are unfounded.

"Based on investigative information, the young man who the threats were attributed to made no statements of suspicion or direct threats," the Harford County Sheriff's Office said in a statement Wednesday morning.

That said, there was an increased police presence at schools around Harford County due to what school officials said were a "number of threats."

Officials learned about the "possibility of a threat made by a student against Harford Technical High School" on Tuesday evening, according to the sheriff's office.

Authorities thanked the public for notifying law enforcement about the situation and asked that people continue following the protocol of "if you see something, say something."

SEE ALSO: Bel Air High Among Schools With Increased Police On Wednesday

Here is the full statement from the Harford County Sheriff's Office, issued Tuesday night:

"Earlier this evening, the Harford County Sheriff’s Office became aware of the possibility of a threat made by a student against Harford Technical High School. Our investigators thoroughly evaluated the statements that were made, as well as interviewed the student and their family, and at this time, have deemed the threats to be unfounded. Students can anticipate seeing an increased police presence tomorrow morning out of an abundance of caution. We thank everyone who called in information and encourage community members to continue to follow the advice of “see something say something."

On Wednesday morning, Harford County Public Schools issued this statement as well:

"As you may be aware, there have been a number of threats reported throughout our school system. We have been working with the Department of Safety and Security and the Harford County Sheriff's Office and other local law enforcement agencies to determine there is no valid or supporting evidence found to indicate any credible threat.

"School safety is our utmost priority and the members of the administrative team and security staff will continue to be vigilant in maintaining the safety of Harford County Public Schools. A letter from the Superintendent has been placed on the HCPS website and on each school EdLine page addressing safety in our schools.

"Please know that we take all reports and threats seriously and has been our practice, will continue to work cooperatively with public safety and other agencies to ensure the safety of our students and staff. We need your help to stem the spread of unfounded rumors by talking with your child about responsible social media use, as rumors originate and perpetuate in that forum and can cause undue stress on the school community.

"The misuse of social media may result in school discipline and serious legal consequences.

"Under no circumstances will HCPS tolerate anyone creating a climate of fear for our students, families, and staff.

"Together we can help keep our schools a safe and comfortable learning environment for our children."

There will be extra police presence at the school in the 200 block of Thomas Run Road on Wednesday, Feb. 21. Photo courtesy of Harford Technical High School.