KLGR-area schools struggle with apparent false accusations of threats this week
Law enforcement and area school administrators in KLGR-area schools have struggled with rumors of supposed threats made against them this week.
At about 11:23 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, KLGR was sent the following press release from the Redwood Falls Police Department:
“On March 3rd at approximately 11:55 a.m. Redwood Falls Police Department (RFPD) responded to the Redwood Valley High School to investigate a report a student had threatened other students with a weapon. At this time, RFPD has found no credible evidence a threat was made toward any student, the Redwood Valley High School, or any other school, facility, or person in our community. No arrests have been made as a result of this incident and it remains under investigation.”
Later in the day on Wednesday, KLGR was passed on notices from two area school superintendents. Rick Ellingworth, Superintendent of the Redwood Area School District, stated in part: “I want to assure you that we take allegations like this one very seriously….
“There is no immediate threat to anyone’s safety, and we feel that students are safe at school this week and in the future. There are a great deal of rumors floating around social media, and none of it has any credible truth.”
Rob Brandl, Superintendent of the Cedar Mountain Schools, stated, “This morning we were made aware that someone outside of Cedar Mountain Schools may have made some threatening statements about the school. This information was not heard directly but was passed to others through hearsay.
“We immediately began working with the Morgan Police Department to investigate and address the concern. We were informed by law enforcement that the alleged information has been investigated, there is no immediate threat…. Please know that student and staff safety is our number one priority.”
KLGR will follow up as, or if, any further information becomes available.