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TST BOCES end school lockout after e-mail threat

TST BOCES end school lockout after e-mail threat

The TST BOCES campus in Ithaca. (file) Photo: Saga Communications/Joe Salzone


ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — School lockouts have ended.

TST BOCES says several school districts in the area received an e-mail threat early this morning, which triggered immediate lockout procedures.

“Earlier today, multiple school districts across our region and throughout New York State received a threatening message via email. In coordination with their local law enforcement agencies, schools that received the message immediately entered lockout procedures as a precautionary measure.”

“After thorough review and investigation by local, regional, and state law enforcement, schools have now exited lockout. Law enforcement officials continue to monitor the situation closely and have determined that there is no ongoing threat to school safety at this time.”

The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office will increase patrols for the next few days. “Our top priority is the safety of our students, educators, and community members,” Sheriff Derek Osborne said. “We are maintaining open communication with our school districts and law enforcement partners as this situation develops.” According to Osborne, “These messages also contain threats directed toward county employees, elected officials, and local financial institutions.”

The e-mailed threat was sent to several school districts in Tompkins County, the sheriff said.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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