DeWine sending OSP Field Force members to Springfield schools

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio (WDTN) — In less than a week, over 30 bomb threats have been received, all which were hoaxes.

During an afternoon press conference, Gov. Mike DeWine provided an update on how state and federal organizations are responding to assist Springfield.

From late last week until 3 p.m. on Sept. 15, DeWine reports at least 33 bomb threats were reported. DeWine confirmed all location subject to threats were searched, and determined to have been hoaxes.

“I want to make that very, very clear,” said DeWine. “None of those had any validity at all.”

To ensure students are safe and have the ability to learn, DeWine is placing 36 members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Field Force into all 17 schools within the Springfield City School District.

Members of the Field Force will begin their day sweeping the building to ensure no threat is present. All 36 officials will remain at the schools daily for the duration of the school day “very visibly.”

Dr. Bob Hill, superintendent for SCSD, is appreciative of the additional support from the state and community.

“We appreciate the support of the State of Ohio, our parents, and the Springfield community,” said Hill. “Together, we will work to deploy the needed resources to keep our schools safe and ensure that our students receive the education that they deserve. Better days are ahead for our Wildcat Family.”

According to Andy Wilson, director of Ohio Department of Public Safety, the Ohio Office of Homeland Security to conduct “vulnerability assessments” across Springfield. Sky towers have also been brought in to the city for situational awareness to view what is happening in real-time, which the Springfield Police Division now have access to.

Wilson also said bomb dogs to be on-site in Springfield, rather than waiting on a canine from another nearby city.

The Governor assured to parents that none of the hoaxes were legitimate, and students should be able to return to schools.

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