Weston police commend school’s handling of swatting incident - Newport Dispatch
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Weston police commend school’s handling of swatting incident

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WESTON — A juvenile from a neighboring jurisdiction was interviewed by the Weston Police Department and an FBI representative on Jan. 28 after making threats that were initially believed to target Weston High School, authorities said.

The threats, made in a closed Instagram group, were reported by a student moderator to the proper authorities, leading to an investigation.

The juvenile, whose identity has not been disclosed due to their age, indicated that the threatening message was intended as a prank.

During the interview, officials learned the suspect had conducted an online search for “Weston High School” teachers, mistakenly linking the threat to the Massachusetts school, rather than one in Connecticut.

The investigators established that the juvenile had no connection to the teacher mentioned, had never visited Weston, Connecticut, and had no intention of carrying out any threat against the school.

Charges are pending as the Weston Massachusetts Police Department reviews the case in the appropriate jurisdiction.

The response to the incident has been lauded by the police department, highlighting the effectiveness of the safety protocols executed by Weston Public Schools administrators, staff, and students during the off-site evacuation and dismissal.

The orderly manner in which the situation was handled is attributed to the school’s comprehensive safety and security plan, which is regularly practiced and assessed.

The incident drew support from the Weston Volunteer Fire and EMS Departments, Weston Communication Center, First Selectwoman Nestor, and regional bomb detection units.

With the case now closed and no current threats to the safety of Weston Public Schools, the community has been reassured of the commitment to maintaining a secure environment for students, educators, and visitors.

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