FBI, This Week: Hoax Threats Have Consequences

Audio Transcript

Mollie Halpern: With schools back in session across the country, the FBI reminds the public that making false threats is a crime.

Any communication threatening students, teachers, and staff at schools or public places is a federal crime that could lock people behind prison doors for up to five years.

FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich…

David Bowdich: Hoax threats have real consequences. We don’t want to see a young person begin their adult lives with a felony record.

Halpern: Other consequences of this crime include a fine and …

Bowdich: … emotional distress to students, school personnel, and parents. False threats also drain taxpayer money and divert valuable law enforcement resources away from other critical responsibilities.

Halpern: Making false threats is not a joke. Think before you post.

Report threats and suspicious behavior to law enforcement, and in emergencies, dial 911.

With FBI, This Week, I’m Mollie Halpern of the Bureau.