OHS - November 1, 2017
Posted on 11/01/2017

PRESS RELEASE

 

The following is a joint press release from the Oneida City Police Department, the Oneida City School District, and the Office of Oneida City Mayor Leo Matzke:

On Wednesday, November 1, 2017, staff members of the Oneida High School began to hear rumors being circulated amongst students of a possibly threatening statement about the high school that was allegedly posted on a social media platform.  At about the same time, the Oneida Police Department was also contacted by the parent of a student who also reported the same rumor. 

Acting collaboratively, the Oneida City School District and the Oneida City Police Department interviewed numerous students who had reported hearing about the alleged threat.  None of those students reported actually seeing the alleged threat on the social media platform.  There was never any confirmation that a threat was actually made or posted on social media.

The person who was purported to have made these threats was located by the Oneida Police Department and has not admitted to engaging in such behavior.  That person has not been charged with any crime as no crime was ever substantiated.   No further information will be released pertaining to this individual. 

During the course of the day on Wednesday, the Oneida Police Department maintained a presence at the Oneida High School and will continue to do so today.  This presence is out of an abundance of caution and not related to any enhanced concern for student safety. 

The Oneida Police Department, the Oneida City School District and Mayor Leo Matzke all want everyone to know that at no time during yesterday’s investigation were students or staff of the high school at risk or in any danger.  The safety of students and staff are always paramount.

No further public information can be released by any of the three entities issuing this press release at this time.  



UPDATE: 

Below is an update regarding the incident at Oneida High School today. 

As previously communicated, a student reported a potential threatening statement about Oneida High School that was posted on a social media platform.  Administration was immediately notified, who in turn, contacted law enforcement. Investigations by both school officials and law enforcement showed no signs of a credible threat.  The school district continues to remain in constant contact with the Oneida Police Department and will follow all directives given by law enforcement.

This evening we received notification by the Oneida Police Department that there is “No threat at this time.” As an additional safeguard, law enforcement will be present on district grounds on Thursday to alleviate any safety concerns for students. Classes will continue as normal on Thursday and counselors will be available for students.

Our school is committed to the safety and education of our students.  Essential to this commitment is open communication with parents about safety issues when they arise.   We would like to thank the Oneida Police Department for all of their efforts in assisting with the investigation and to keep our students safe!


On Wednesday morning a student reported a potential threatening statement about the High School that was posted on the social media platform, Snapchat. The rumored threat was made by the same student that was the cause of a lockdown and shelter in place at the high school within the last two weeks.  Administration was immediately notified, who in turn, contacted law enforcement. We have been advised that there is no credibility to the rumors. The school district continues to remain in constant contact with the Oneida Police Department and will follow all directives given by the law enforcement. Safety continues to remain of utmost importance. We continue to work with the Oneida Police Department and we will notify parents and community members as we have additional information. Oneida Police Department is on campus and will remain as a presence of protection and classes will proceed as normal.