Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony

As a new school year begins, the Broward Sheriff’s Office remains steadfast in our commitment to protect Broward County’s students. We must continue to work in partnership with educators, families, and students to create safe and supportive learning environments. That effort includes reminding students that making a false report of a threat is not a game but a decision with life-altering consequences.

Sending a text falsely stating that someone will shoot up a school, falsely posting about a bomb placed in a school, or any other false threat, is not a joke or laughing matter. It is, in fact, a crime. Under Florida law, a person can be charged with a felony for written threats to kill, cause bodily injury, or conduct a mass shooting.

These types of arrests need not be. Educating our children to make better choices will prevent them from making decisions that will inevitably and unnecessarily hurt their future.

Also, let us all remember, an alert, informed community plays a critical role in public safety. If you see something, say something. The early detection of someone planning to make a false threat or any other suspicious activity can make our schools and communities safer.

“Parents, we urge you to speak with your children and remind them BSO takes every single threat seriously. These types of threats are investigated fully and could result in criminal charges. Let us all work together to ensure our schools are a safe place to learn for every child in every school,” Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony said.