Sheriff's Dept. increases presence at local schools due to rumors, threats, perpetuated through social media

Fallbrook Sheriff's substation commander Lt. Todd Richardson said this afternoon that his staff has had a greater presence at Fallbrook and Bonsall schools than normal the past few days due to rumors and threats being perpetuated through social media.

"My opinion is that these rumors and threats, which are running rampant throughout schools in all of San Diego County, are being exacerbated by the 'end of the world' claim and tragic incident that took place at a Connecticut school," said Richardson.

Parents have called the office of Fallbrook High School and the Sheriff's substation reporting the rumors their students have heard.

"We have investigated numerous rumors about individuals and none of them has proved to be credible," said Richardson.

"We have been working extremely close with the superintendents of the schools and the principals," he added. "This is the same scenario all over the county, and no one has found any credible threat. The only incident where a student has been detained was in Carlsbad."

Given the concern demonstrated by students and parents, Richardson said deputies have been paying visits to all 21 local schools "Just to show our presence; show that we are vigilant; that there is a police presence here."

"Actually, we are going to continue that into January," he said. "It's not meant to alarm anyone; we just want to show our presence to reassure people."

The rumors and threats cover a wide number of scenarios and Richardson said it is a time when individual fears come to light.

"It's really too bad; what happens is it brings forth some of the internal fears kids have; things in the back of their mind like racial or gang issues," said Richardson.

Any resident wishing to report a specific threat can call the Sheriff's substation at (760) 451-3100 for assistance.