Sumter deputies say threat to school was 'rumor'

Law enforcement presence increased at Crestwood High School on Wednesday after a possible threat that turned out to be “a rumor,” according to Sumter County Sheriff's Office.

According to Mark Bordeaux, public information officer for the agency, the alleged threat had been made during a group chat; however, investigators have not been able to find such a chat. Upon further investigation, it was indicated the threat was hearsay, and investigators are seeking the source of the rumor.

“We take these threats very seriously,” said Sheriff Anthony Dennis. “This may have been only a rumor, but it does not change the way we respond. The safety of our children is always our top priority.”

In addition to the school resource officer, additional units, including undercover and uniformed deputies, were assigned to the school, Bordeaux said.

Dennis said those responsible for spreading the rumor “should know that it is no joke to us or the parents and faculty of a school” and asked anyone who heard this threat or rumor of a threat to contact the office.

Additionally, he thanked the parents who brought the threat to the attention of law enforcement and encouraged students and parents to report anything that could be interpreted as a danger to students.

“Please do not hesitate to call us,” he said. “Even if you think there is nothing to it, please contact us. We will investigate every report to ensure the safety of our schools.”