NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Newport News Police Department has charged three teens for separate threats against schools in the area in the past week.
“We take these threats very seriously, and will continue to do so,” Newport News Police Department Chief Steve Drew said. “We encourage parents and children to come forward any time there are concerns about safety."
On Tuesday, January 21, Newport News police were notified of threats made on social media against Gildersleeve and Dozier middle schools.
After further investigation, a 13-year-old girl was taken into custody the next day and charged with Threat in Writing at School/School Event.
On Wednesday, January 22, Newport News police were called about a threat made on social media against Passage Middle School. After investigating, officers took a 12-year-old boy into custody on Thursday, January 23 and charged him with one count of Threat in Writing at School/School Event.
The last incident took place on Wednesday, January 22. Newport News police were notified of another threat made on social media against Dozier Middle School. Officers charged a 14-year-old with one count: Threat in Writing at School/School Event.
Chief Drew said he is thankful for everyone who shared posts and tips, which assisted in the investigations.
The names of the individuals charged have not been released.