Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office: School threat at Greenville Middle-High School determined to be a swatting incident
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- School threat at Greenville Middle-High School determined to be non-credible swatting incident originating from Europe.
- Suspect remains unidentified; authorities coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to pursue criminal charges.
A threat that prompted an emergency law enforcement response at Greenville Middle-High School last week has been determined to be a non-credible threat believed to be a swatting incident, according to the Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office.
In an update released Thursday, November 5, the sheriff’s office said investigators determined the threat originated in Europe and involved various internet-based services and technologies designed to conceal the source of the call.
The incident occurred on October 29, when Meriwether County 911 received a telephone call at approximately 9:51 a.m. claiming that an act of violence was imminent at Greenville Middle-High School.
The call prompted an immediate law enforcement response, along with precautionary measures to protect students and staff throughout Meriwether County Schools.
Although investigators have determined the threat was not credible, the individual responsible has not been identified.
The sheriff’s office said incidents involving false threats, commonly referred to as swatting, have become increasingly common at schools and other institutions across the country. Such incidents are intended to provoke emergency responses from law enforcement.
Sheriff Smith said the safety of students, school personnel and the community remains the agency’s top priority.
“Although our investigation indicates this threat was not credible, we will never take chances when it comes to the safety of our children,” Smith said.
The sheriff praised the immediate response by deputies and the cooperation of law enforcement partners and school officials.
The Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office said it will continue working with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to monitor similar incidents and pursue criminal charges when possible, including federal prosecution when warranted.
The agency also thanked its law enforcement partners for their assistance during the initial response and subsequent investigation, as well as school officials for their cooperation.
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