Social Media Threat Locked Ossining Schools Down, Out Today

Two threats to Ossining High School made on social media last night and this morning prompted school and police officials to follow their emergency plan and take safety precautions.

Ossining High School was on lockdown; the other schools were only in a “lockout” which is less strict. In both procedures unauthorized people are not allowed into school buildings.

Here’s what schools Superintendent Ray Sanchez said on the district’s website:

Please be advised, a non-specific threat to our high school environment was made on a social media platform late last night. This threat was investigated by police and deemed not credible; however, a second anonymous social media threat was made late this morning. As a result, the building was put on lockdown status by the principal and law enforcement was immediately called to the building to investigate. Also, as a precautionary measure, all other schools were put in a lockout.

At this time, the police have found no evidence of a credible threat and believe the building is secure; however, they will maintain a presence in the building for the balance of the day. These threats are a criminal offense and those responsible for such offenses will face appropriate discipline and potential legal action.

The safety of our students and staff is our first priority. Our principal acted quickly and wisely to this threat, and I also want to thank the Village of Ossining Police for their support and thorough work to ensure that our school buildings remain safe.

We thank you for your patience today and for understanding why sensitive information may not be immediately available during an incident.

The Ossining village police department issued this note on Facebook.

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