FBI launches campaign to educate the public to #ThinkBeforeYouPost
WASHINGTON — The FBI announced a campaign Wednesday to educate the public on the consequences of posting hoax threats to schools and other public places.
In the aftermath of tragic shootings such as the ones in at Santa Fe High School in Texas and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida, the FBI and law enforcement around the country often see an increase in threats made to schools and other public forums.
The FBI and its partners follow up on every tip received from the public and analyze and investigate all threats to determine their credibility. Federal, state and local law enforcement then employ a full range of tools to mitigate those threats that are deemed credible.
When an investigation concludes there was a false or hoax threat made, a federal charge could be considered, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. If a federal charge is not warranted, state charges can be considered.
Public assistance is crucial to these efforts. If there is any reason to believe the safety of others is at risk, the public is asked to immediately contact their local police department by calling 911, or contact the FBI via tips.fbi.gov or over the phone (1-800-CALL-FBI).
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