Making false reports to police about weapons at a Chatham high school has landed a pair of girls in hot water with police.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service said officers responded to John McGregor Secondary School on Monday and again on Wednesday after receiving calls about weapons at the school.
Police quickly learned the calls were false and there was no credible threat.
Following an investigation, officers identified two female youths as those responsible for the false reports. The pair have since been referred to the Chatham-Kent Police Service Youth Officer for participation in a youth diversion program.
Both CK police and the Lambton Kent District School Board are urging everyone to avoid making false reports that mislead police. The act, known as “swatting,” can result in severe consequences by diverting emergency services away from genuine emergencies.
“These mischievous acts put lives at risk and can have far-reaching consequences for both the victims and the perpetrators,” police said in a news release. “It is important to recognize that such actions are considered extremely serious and will not be tolerated.”
Anyone who witnesses similar incidents or to report any suspicious activity is urged to contact police at 519-352-1234.
