Audio Transcript

Mollie Halpern: In the aftermath of tragic attacks such as the one at Sante Fe High School in Texas, there is often an increase in hoax threats to schools and other public places.

Whether false threats are made on social media, verbally, or otherwise, criminals could be locked behind prison doors for up to five years.

FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich…

David Bowdich: The Bureau and its law enforcement partners take each threat seriously. We investigate and fully analyze each threat to determine its credibility.

Halpern: In addition to time behind bars and a fine, other consequences of this crime include …

Bowdich: … emotional distress to students, school personnel, and parents. False threats also drain taxpayer money and divert valuable law enforcement resources away from other critical responsibilities.

Halpern: Making false threats is not a joke. Think before you post.

Report threats and suspicious behavior to law enforcement, and in emergencies, dial 911.

With FBI, This Week, I’m Mollie Halpern of the Bureau.