Threats targeting Mt. Nebo Middle School prompt police presence at school
PAYSON, Utah (ABC4) — Police and school officials received threats against Mt. Nebo Middle School in Payson — along with school and district staff members — prompting a police presence at the school on Friday, according to school district officials.
Nebo School District Public Information Officer Seth Sorensen told ABC4.com that the threats were received both Thursday night and Friday morning.
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The threats to the middle school and staff happened the same week that a protest at the school gained national attention. Officials told ABC4.com that the threat — which claimed there was a bomb in the school — was a direct response to the protest.
Sorensen said the Payson Police Department “conducted a comprehensive sweep” of the entire school building, but did not find any evidence of the threat and determined the threat was not valid.
Police confirmed that one of the biggest threats came in around 3:30 a.m. and that other schools received threats as well. In addition, police said several school administrators received threats.
Because police did not find evidence of the threat, Sorensen said it was deemed safe enough to hold school.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we will have an increased police presence at the school today,” Sorensen said on Friday.
Police later said that they will continue to have an increased presence at the school “as an extra precaution,” as they continue to monitor the situation.
Sorensen said authorities have followed up with the individuals who were threatened. Those threats are also being investigated.
There is no further information at this time.
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