FBI makes statement following numerous school threats

The Pittsburgh Field office of the FBI says it's keeping an eye out on the various threats to local schools not only here in Western Pennsylvania but in neighboring West Virginia.

A number of districts this week had classes disrupted after reported threats against them.

The FBI says threats are disruptive, waste resources and put first responders and innocent people in unnecessary danger.

The FBI says its working with local law enforcement to investigate these reports and to track down leads to identify and mitigate threats quickly and effectively.

The full statement says:

“The FBI is aware of recent threats directed toward multiple school districts across Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. We remain in close coordination with our law enforcement partners to provide assistance where appropriate. That includes gathering intelligence, sharing information, tracking down leads, and working with partners to identify and mitigate threats quickly and effectively.

Issuing a threat of any kind promoting violence can be a violation of state and/or federal law. Those found responsible will be thoroughly investigated, and FBI Pittsburgh will immediately engage with our local, state, and federal partners to leverage the full extent of the law.

These threats disrupt school, waste resources, and put first responders and innocent people in unnecessary danger.

FBI Pittsburgh stands committed and ready to respond to any immediate threat involving any educational institution 24 hours a day. We encourage students, teachers, administrators, and parents to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities that could represent a threat to 911, to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or online at tips.fbi.gov.”