FBI Investigates TikTok Threat, Wappingers Student Arrested

In a troubling incident, a Wappingers student was arrested following a nonspecific threat of mass harm made on TikTok. This situation raised significant concerns among parents and school officials alike, prompting a call for open discussions about social media behavior among students.

FBI Investigation Clears the Air

On Tuesday, the New York State Police’s Wappinger Bureau of Criminal Investigation, along with the Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team, acted on a warning from the FBI Safe Streets Task Force regarding a potential threat. Investigators quickly traced the origin of the threat back to the Town of Wappinger and arrested the minor involved. The student now faces charges related to making a threat of mass harm, with an appearance ticket issued for Dutchess County Family Court.

A Call for Caution and Communication

Wappingers School District Superintendent Dwight Bonk emphasized the importance of responsible social media use, urging students to “Report Threats, not Repost Threats.” He noted that sharing vague threats online can lead to unnecessary panic within the community. "When students repost false reports of potential school violence that they see online, it can create substantial concern," Bonk stated. He expressed gratitude to local law enforcement for their swift response and thorough investigation, underscoring that "the safety and security of our students and staff remain our top priority."

Building a Safe School Environment

In light of this incident, school officials are reinforcing their commitment to maintaining a safe school environment. They will continue to collaborate with law enforcement to ensure that students feel secure while encouraging families to engage in conversations about the responsible use of social media. By fostering open dialogue, the Wappingers community aims to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring a supportive and safe educational atmosphere for all students.