An email targeting a massive number of Florida school districts with a bomb threat has triggered a large-scale investigation by both the FBI and Homeland Security. These threats were directed at over 40 districts across Florida, demanding Bitcoin payment and claiming that bombs had been placed within the schools, according to a WFTV report. Despite the ominous nature of the threats, authorities have classified the threats as non-credible hoaxes.
The alarming email first came to light when district officials, including those in Brevard County Public Schools, received it and promptly issued a news release. "These threats are not considered credible and appear to be part of a hoax intended to solicit money," read the release, as stated in ClickOrlando. Local and state law enforcement are now fully engaged, working alongside federal agencies to resolve the incident and reassure the public. In Central Florida, school resource officers and deputies were quickly notified and are keeping a vigilant watch over the situation.
The Sumter County School District, which also received the dire warning, stated that it took the threat seriously, despite doubting its credibility. "While we do not believe this to be a credible threat, we are taking it seriously and working closely with our local and state law enforcement partners to keep everyone safe," the statement read, as outlined by ClickOrlando. They've also taken preventative measures, including an increased law-enforcement presence on campuses.
Contradictory information initially arose from Seminole County Public Schools, where a spokesperson initially claimed not to have received the threat. However, they later clarified that they had been a recipient, stating, "We wanted to inform you that a widespread email was sent to over 40 districts in the State of Florida last night, and our district received the same email, regarding bombs being placed in schools and demanding payment in bitcoin," Katherine Crnkovich, a communications officer for Seminole County Public Schools, relayed in a message to families and staff obtained by ClickOrlando. The investigation is ongoing to track down the source of these threats.
