TikTok and other social media posts about possible violence on Friday in Darien schools are not credible, according to a statement released by Darien Police Department.
“At this time, there are no credible threats to any school in the Connecticut school system including Darien,” said the statement from Sgt. Dan Skoumbros, the department’s public information officer. “As always, we will have police personal around our schools in town as a precautionary measure.”
In a separate announcement, Schools Superintendent Alan Addley said: “The District has discussed this social media posting with the Darien Police Department. At this time, there is no reported credibility to the threat.”
Addley’s statement said the police presence would be larger than usual: “Out of an abundance of caution, there will be additional police presence at all schools at drop off tomorrow morning and throughout the school day.
“Sadly, we live in times when we have to consider such topics and threats. As always, please immediately report any potential social media threats of this or similar nature to the Police Department and school district.”
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Here are the full texts of each statement:
Full Text of Skoumbros’ Statement
The statement was emailed at 2:20 p.m., Thursday:
The Darien Police are aware of TikTok’s and social media posts circulating regarding the potential for school violence on Friday Dec. 17. At this time, there are no credible threats to any school in the Connecticut school system including Darien.
As always, we will have police personal around our schools in town as a precautionary measure.
The Darien Police Department has been in contact with the town government and the Board of Education regarding the social media threats. The Darien Police Department would like to stress once again that there is no credible evidence of the threats at this time.
Superintendent’s Statement
Addley’s statement was emailed at 2:30 p.m., Thursday:
Dear Staff & Families,
The media reported today on a social media TikTok video referencing a threat of school shootings across the nation tomorrow, Friday, Dec. 17. The District has discussed this social media posting with the Darien Police Department. At this time, there is no reported credibility to the threat.
Out of an abundance of caution, there will be additional police presence at all schools at drop off tomorrow morning and throughout the school day.
Sadly, we live in times when we have to consider such topics and threats. As always, please immediately report any potential social media threats of this or similar nature to the police department and school district.
Thank you for your continued partnership in ensuring the health and safety of our staff and students.
Sincerely,
Alan Addley, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools