Police Investigating After Threat Made To Preschool

A release from the Reading Police Department:

READING -- The Reading Police Department responded to a private preschool Friday afternoon to investigate after a scam phone call was placed from overseas demanding money from the establishment according to Deputy Chief David Clark.

An investigation by Reading Police, in consultation with the FBI, determined that there was no actual danger to anyone at the preschool.

At approximately 3 p.m., Reading Police received a call from a man who stated he would harm people at 5 Senses School, located at 1381 Main St., if he did not receive ransom money. The school services toddlers through children in pre-kindergarten.

Police immediately responded to the scene, and out of an abundance of caution, placed the school on lock down while they conducted a search of the interior and exterior. Nothing dangerous was found inside or outside the building.

At the same time, Reading Police traced the call, which came back to a number registered in Jamaica, as did the address the suspect gave for wiring the money he was demanding.

Reading Police were on scene assisting with dismissal, and the school will resume regular hours next week.