Multiple local law enforcement agencies have been responding to several online threats being made toward Colorado Springs schools Wednesday, and two local students have been charged with making false threats.
The two students charged are from two separate local schools and are facing charges for their "participation in spreading false information regarding threats to schools locally and nationwide." One student was charged with interference of an educational institution, and the other was charged for false reporting and the interference of an educational institution. Their names are not being released at this time due to them both being minors.
This investigation stemmed from information received by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office regarding threats against school staff and students in multiple school districts in El Paso County.
"School safety is a high priority for my Office, and our commitment towards this mission extends beyond the hard work and dedication of our (School Resource Officers)," said Sheriff Joseph Roybal. "It is something at the forefront of the mind of every individual working in law enforcement.
Earlier in the day Wednesday, Colorado Springs police reported investigating the "nonspecific" threats to area schools and confirmed through social media on Wednesday that there is no credible threat.
According to the department, the threats were circulating in the community, largely through social media channels. The department said certain threats originate from outside of Colorado, police said.
After further investigation, the department determined that there was "no credible threat to any school or school districts in Colorado Springs."
"We closely monitor and investigate posts like these to determine their credibility and take immediate action on verified threats as they may arise," the post read Wednesday afternoon.
Unspecified threats to schools on social media are not new to Colorado Springs-area schools. In August 2023, Academy District 20 officials deemed social media threats against Liberty High School as "not credible."
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