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 17 Springfield schools.

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.”

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.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.