KATY [September 21, 2018] – Hoax threats are not a joke. This type of action can lead to serious legal consequences, even if there was never an intent to carry out the threat. Katy Independent School District has joined forces with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Houston Division and various other law enforcement agencies to launch a public awareness campaign entitled #ThinkBeforeYouPost.
Members of the Houston Police Department, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, police chiefs from Houston, Katy, Fort Bend and Aldine Independent School Districts as well as Crime Stoppers of Houston and Clear Channel Outdoor seek to educate the public about the consequences of making hoax threats of violence to schools and other public places. Every threat is taken seriously and this type of behavior is considered a crime which can lead to a sentence of up to five years in prison, if escalated to a federal crime. If a federal charge is not warranted, state charges can be considered.
“My commendation to federal authorities for putting together an effort including law enforcement agencies from area school districts. This is a campaign that creates awareness with young people and also with their parents,” said Robert Jinks, Katy ISD Chief of Police.
According to authorities, posting false threats through social media platforms or any electronic means, not only requires countless hours of investigation by law enforcement agencies but it also drains school resources and ends up costing taxpayers’ money. In some cases, schools shut down resulting in the loss of instructional time for students and teachers.
Misguided attempts at humor are no laughing matter and can end up ruining a student’s future aspirations and career opportunities. Katy ISD seeks the public’s assistance to curb hoax threats among our student population. Below you will find additional resources to share with family and friends. Remember hoax threats are not a joke, so think before you post!
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