Increased Police Presence Continues At Howard Co. Schools

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — County and state officials continue to investigate potential threats made at three schools recently and a heightened police presence will continue at these schools for the remainder of the school year.

Clarksville Middle School, Reservoir High School and Guilford Park High School were the targeted buildings involved in the threats.

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According to letters sent to school families, the incident started with doxxing, or the unauthorized publishing of personal information online, of employees and staff. Then it escalated to threatening messages. Last week, a bomb threat led to the evacuation of Reservoir High School.

“We recognize that situations like this can create fear, uncertainty and frustration. Please know that the safety and well-being of our students and staff remain our highest priorities. We will continue to work closely with HCPSS and HCPD, monitor developments, support affected individuals, and communicate updates as appropriate,” Reservoir High School Principal Dr. Karim Shortridge wrote last week in the letter.

Another round of letters were sent Sunday night. Principals wrote that “[u]nfortunately, bad actors continue to attempt to disrupt our school community through digital harassment and threats. While nothing has come from recent threats, we will continue to prioritize the safety of our students, staff and families.”

School district leaders identified the group behind the threats as “Maryland Hackers Unite,” according to WMAR. The Maryland Center for School Safety, which tracks reported threats and provides an anonymous reporting system, also is working alongside the district.

HCPSS community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any threats, harassment or suspected doxxing activity directly to law enforcement. Non-emergency concerns can be reported to the Howard County Police Department at 410-313-2200, emergencies or immediate threats should be reported by calling 911.