A competitive high school in Brooklyn has been experiencing frequent, untraceable bomb threats, causing concern for students and their families. Reports indicate that these threats have been occurring almost daily for several months, with the NYPD struggling to identify the responsible parties since May. Some families are beginning to consider transferring to safer schools.
“This type of situation feels common, but we’re often left in the dark about what’s truly happening,” a freshman remarked as classes ended on Thursday.
A fellow student shared similar sentiments, expressing unease due to a lack of information from authorities. They described how the constant alarms disrupt their day, leading to lockdowns where students are confined indoors until safety is assured.
Currently, police assessments have deemed recent threats as lacking credibility, and investigations are ongoing.
This troubling issue came to light through a frustrated parent, who indicated that there seems to be no resolution on the horizon. The alarming calls have not only targeted the Brooklyn Latin School but also affected two other schools sharing the same campus, amplifying the fear and disruption.
A parent, Manuel Ars, expressed his anxiety about sending his daughters to school, admitting that, despite weekly meetings with police, there remains an unsettling uncertainty about the threats.
Initially presumed to be a result of students attempting to avoid classes, the frequency of threats skyrocketed following the Labor Day break. Unfortunately, tracing these calls has proven difficult because they’re made via VPNs, which hide their origin.
The NYPD noted an increase in such “swatting” incidents over the past two years, stating these false alarm calls divert critical resources from genuine emergencies. Although police are escalating their presence in the vicinity of the school, many families still feel exposed and anxious. Students report heightened anxiety from the frequent disruptions.
“I can’t help but feel nervous regarding potential threats, as it feels like bomb threats are now a routine occurrence,” a sophomore noted.
Adding that even perceived pranks carry a weight of seriousness, the student expressed frustration over the vague details communicated by authorities.
A math teacher voiced disappointment over the ongoing situation, criticizing law enforcement for their inability to prevent these threats. Citing the police’s success in locating other individuals, the teacher challenged them to apply the same efforts here.
Parents are now advocating for a reevaluation of the school’s cell phone ban, stressing that the current environment is no longer safe and feeling that they lack immediate communication with their children during these crises.
One student, Jackie, mentioned that she has adjusted to the bomb threats, describing her initial fear as having faded. “At first, it was alarming, but now it seems like an everyday occurrence,” she reflected.
A representative from the city’s Department of Education emphasized that student safety is paramount. They reassured the community that all threats are taken seriously, and the department collaborates closely with law enforcement to ensure safety for everyone involved.
