Social Media Threats Jump Against MoCo Schools: Police

ROCKVILLE, MD — In the wake of the mass shooting last month at a high school in Parkland, Fla., the Montgomery County Police Department said Monday it has seen a "significant increase" in threats made to county schools via emails and social media, as well as phone calls and other means. Every threat is investigated, so the department is asking parents to monitor how their children use social media.

Most threats have been proven not to be credible, the police said. Some have been direct; others have used suggestive words and images. Motives range from pranks to a desire to disrupt school activities.

In two recent cases, those making the threats were criminally charged. Anyone who makes a threat against a school can face charges ranging from disorderly conduct to threat of mass violence or threat of arson/destructive devices.

The Police Department offers these tips to parents:

• Monitor your child’s social media and talk to him/her about using social media responsibly.
• See something, say something – If you or your child become aware of a threat or other suspicious activity that is concerning, please call police. In regard to social media, please do not share the concerning message – again, call police.
• Remind your child that any threat made will be investigated, even if the child’s intention is to be humorous.

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