From Friday, February 23rd, 2018 through Monday, February 26th, 2018, the North Schuylkill School District received 4 threats against the district through social media. One of those threats involved students being locked down for almost 90 minutes on Friday, February 23rd and another scaring parents enough, that over 200 students were absent on February 26th.
The Butler Township Police investigated the incidents, which led to charges pending against 5 students.
By law, Butler Township Police can only charge those juveniles with misdemeanors unless the threats diverted the school from it's "normal or customary operations".
School officials believe after how many students were affected by the threats, authorities will be able to upgrade the charges to felonies.
Butler Township Police Chief Edward Tarantelli and Schuylkill County District Attorney Michael O'Pake want to give parents and students a voice against anyone who threaten schools and students.
Parents wishing to come forward to report that their lives and daily routines were affected should contact the Butler Township police by calling (570) 875-4131.
Hearings are scheduled for the juveniles that made the threats on their potential expulsion from the North Schuylkill School District.
Superintendent Robert Ackell said "The District is committed to exercising safety as our top priority. It is important to recognize that any future threats against the district will not be tolerated. Any individual of any age will be punished to the greatest extent of the law."
"I would personally like to thank the Spartan students, faculty, staff, parents and the community at large for their patience and support during these trying times." Ackell added.