There will be an increased police presence at schools in Portland as a precaution after an investigation into threatening statements.
Police said they arrested two juveniles Tuesday after receiving reports that statements had been made online that caused alarm. After investigating, officers determined there was no credible cause for further concern, but the department, town officials and school district officials have worked cooperatively and there will be an increased police presence at Portland schools out of an abundance of caution.
School officials said police notified them they were investigating an alleged online threat to Portland Secondary School. Then police said arrests were made after two current students sent text messages -- part of a game -- that caused alarm and worry regarding school safety.
“While the police have determined that there is no reason to believe that the texts pose a threat to our schools, they acted out of a preponderance of caution,” Supt. Philip O’Reilly said in a statement.
“Unfortunately, we are experiencing a climate of abundant alarm and concern for our schools and our children must understand that any threat will be reported to and investigated by our local authorities,” O’Reilly wrote.
