Superintendents, Sheriff continue to ask for vigilance, help with threats

Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 6:06 PM

By Paul Gable

In another letter to parents, all of the county's superintendents stated "this situation is our top priority, and we are taking swift, coordinated action."

While all Putnam County schools faced non-credible threats Thursday, Putnam County education and law enforcement officials continue to ask for vigilance and assistance as the school week winds down.

Putnam County Sheriff Jarrod Baugh told Giant FM and the Putnam County Post that while there have been no credible threats found, his department was involved in three investigations.

In another letter to parents, all of the county's superintendents stated "this situation is our top priority, and we are taking swift, coordinated action."

The letter outlined what law enforcement has been doing, including conducting interviews with students and families throughout the county and creating an increase in police presence. In addition, it stated that it is important for families to understand the threats were on social media and part of a "concerning" statewide and nationwide trend.

The superintendents have asked for the public's help by asking that anyone report any threat immediately to law enforcement and school officials, as well as making sure not to share the messages on social media. Superintendents are also asking that parents monitor their child's social media interactions, as well as having a conversation about how serious making or sharing threats can be.

"We are leveraging every resource at our disposal to resolve this situation quickly and effectively. Our collaboration with law enforcement is comprehensive and all entities are committed to providing and maintaining safe learning environments and working environments for our students and staff. We understand the anxiety this situation may cause. We will provide additional updates as new information becomes available," the letter states.

South Putnam Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Smith told The Putnam County Post and Giant FM WREB the feedback from students and parents has been "positive and understanding for the most part."

"All law enforcement agencies have been outstanding and the cooperation between schools and school officials has been phenomenal," Smith said.