'Swatting' Call Locks Down High School In Burlington Co.

MEDFORD, NJ — A high school in Burlington County went into lockdown Tuesday after police received a false report of violence on the premises, officials said.

Police received a "swatting" call around 11:10 a.m. about an "incident of violence" at Lenape High School in Medford, said township Police Chief Arthur E. Waterman. But authorities found no such thing at the school.

The school was placed in lockdown for two hours as police searched the premises for any signs of danger.

"Police conducted a search of the school and determined the initial report was unfounded," Waterman said in a statement. "On-scene investigation revealed that there was no safety threat to students and staff."

Swatting refers to a malicious report to law enforcement about a fake emergency. The criminal act is designed to bring a serious law enforcement response, including SWAT teams, to a specified location.

About 20 minutes after the alleged swatting call, school officials informed parents that the school was targeted by a swatting call.

"Although no hazards or dangers have been identified, we are following our protocol and the school is in lockdown while police investigate," Principal Tony Cattani told parents via email.

Medford police continue to investigate the incident.

Lenape High School is part of the Lenape Regional High School District, which serves students in Grades 9-12 from Evesham, Medford, Medford Lakes, Mount Laurel, Shamong, Southampton and Tabernacle.