LISBON

The Lisbon Police Department released additional details about what they’ve determined were not credible threats made at the middle and high schools this week.

In a Facebook page post, the police department attempts to provide information and dispel misinformation that has circulated.

The post explains that earlier in the week, “there was a rumor that a school shooting would take place either this Friday (today) or next Friday (April 14). The rumor started when one student reportedly told another student that the threat had been written on a bathroom wall at the high school.”

All rooms were checked and no evidence of threats were found. School administrators spoke with students but no evidence was found of a threat towards students or staff. School officials and police worked together throughout this investigation.

Then late in the afternoon Thursday after students had been dismissed, a staff member at Philip W. Sugg Middle School found a threatening message written on a desk. 

Lisbon police were contacted and again determined there was no legitimate threat to students or staff. An officer was posted at each school Friday morning to alleviate any fears or concerns parents, staff or students may have.

Friday morning, a student admitted to writing the threatening message on the desk, according to police, while the alleged incident at the high school remains under investigation. There is still no evidence of a credible threat.

“I want to assure you that students safety is a top priority,” stated a Friday message to parents from the middle school principal, Darren Akerman. “Staff  has bee notified and support services have been put into place.”

According to Akerman, the school convened its crisis team to ensure the school day Friday would be as normal as possible and had counselors at the school to help in case students were upset or nervous about what they had heard.

Susan Magee, Principal of Lisbon High School, also updated parents Friday with a message. She writes that there have been several rumors and comments made online related to a threatening video on social media and the confiscation of a weapon at the high school. 

“Please be assured that the police have investigated, searched and interviewed several students and both of these allegations are simply rumors,” Magee states.

She adds that the school takes these types of allegations seriously, “and we are hoping that this update will put your mind at ease.”

If parents or students have actual evidence related to these incidents or other safety related matters, she asks that they contact her or the police department directly.

Lisbon Police Chief Marc Hagan said Friday afternoon that the department had been busy responding to misinformation, including rumors that the school had been on lockdown or that a student showed up with a weapon. This just didn’t happen, he said.

The department’s Facebook post recognizes the positive aspects of social media but adds, “We would also like to caution our community of one of the negative aspects of social media, which is the communication of incorrect, uncorroborated information, which can lead to panic and confusion. We would like to remind everyone that we are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to address any questions that you may have.”

As of early Friday afternoon, Hagan said the incidents remain under investigation and that no charges have been issued.

dmoore@timesrecord.com