SANFORD, Fla. – Security was increased Friday at Seminole County Public Schools after law enforcement officials overnight received several tips about a disturbing social media video.
According to an email sent early Friday to SCPS families and staff, the video shows an individual wearing a mask and making vague statements referencing “schools and educational institutions.”
“At this time, there is no mention of any country, state, county, specific school, school system, or educational institution, and no information indicating a direct or credible threat to Seminole County Public Schools,” the email stated.
[VIDEO BELOW: Seminole County threatening messages leave parents, school district flustered]
SCPS said the security increase is being made out of an abundance of caution.
“You may notice additional law enforcement presence across Seminole County. These measures are preventative and reflect our strong partnership with local and state law enforcement to ensure the safety of our students and staff,” the note stated.
Federal agencies are investigating the origin of the video.
The increase in security comes one day after a hoax caused a Code Red at Lake Brantley High and Forest City Elementary schools in Altamonte Springs.
Students in Central Florida have reported seeing social media videos that show a man wearing a yellow hockey mask holding guns while threatening shootings and bombings at unspecified schools.
The same videos began circulating in Texas earlier this week, prompting the Fort Worth Police Department to investigate.
“At this time, FWPD Intelligence Exchange Section (INTEX) has strong reason to believe that the online video circulating IS NOT a credible threat,” the Texas law enforcement agency said in a January 6 news release. “The video is believed to have originated outside of the U.S with the sole purpose of inciting fear.”
You can read the full letter from SCPS below.
Important School Safety Update
Good morning, SCPS Families and Staff,
We want to share an important update regarding school safety.
Overnight, our law enforcement partners received several tips through the SpeakOut hotline related to a social media video that is circulating online. The video shows an individual wearing a mask and making vague statements referencing “schools and educational institutions.” At this time, there is no mention of any country, state, county, specific school, school system, or educational institution, and no information indicating a direct or credible threat to Seminole County Public Schools.
Out of an abundance of caution, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office has proactively notified all School Resource Officers and deputies, and you may notice additional law enforcement presence across Seminole County today. These measures are preventative and reflect our strong partnership with local and state law enforcement to ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Federal law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the origin of the video. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners and will share updates if new, verified information becomes available.
The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We appreciate your continued partnership, vigilance, and trust as we work together to keep our schools safe havens for learning and growth.
Thank you for your continued support.
-Seminole County Public Schools