Liberty HS administrators were told of an anonymous potentially threatening Instagram post the morning of Sept. 29, which necessitated the temporary lockdown of the school. Police determined the threat was not credible and life returned to normal, but concern is understandable. Considering the ever-present torrent of information and social media available at the fingertips of nearly every student, how are suspicious or threatening posts not a constant, wearying occurrence?

Police Chief Michelle Kott said such incidents are actually uncommon, but responses require a careful balance between taking every report seriously and avoiding unnecessary disruption to the school day.

“We have established processes for responding to [incidents[ when they do occur,” said Kott, “The fact that something is posted on social media does not automatically make it a credible threat, but neither do we dismiss something simply because it appears to be a joke, a repost, or something posted anonymously. We investigate first and make decisions based on the information available to us.”

She said concerning social media posts brought to the attention of a school, administrators, and law enforcement, who assess totality of the circumstances, including the specific language used, the context of the post, whether a particular school, student, employee, or location is identified, whether there is information suggesting access to weapons or an ability and intent to carry out the threat, the source of the information, and any other corroborating information.

Depending on the circumstances, the investigation can include identifying and interviewing the person responsible for the post, reviewing publicly available information and other evidence, consulting with prosecutors, and determining whether criminal charges are warranted.

Pennsylvania law provides several potential criminal statutes that can apply depending on the specific facts and circumstances, including the offense of terroristic threats. However, not every inappropriate, offensive, or concerning social media post constitutes a terroristic threat under Pennsylvania law. The language, circumstances, intent, and surrounding facts all matter. Ultimately, charging decisions are based on the applicable law and the evidence developed during the investigation.

Kott said, ”There has also been a significant evolution in our training and investigative practices because social media and technology have changed the nature of these incidents. Officers have received training on recognizing, responding to, and investigating threats communicated through electronic platforms. We also work closely with school administrators because they are often the first to receive information from students, parents, or staff.

“One of the biggest challenges is that technology moves considerably faster than laws and established processes,” Kott said. “Posts can be deleted, accounts can be anonymous or impersonated, information can be rapidly reposted, and new platforms and technologies emerge constantly. As a result, law enforcement and schools have to continually adapt their policies, training, investigative practices, and partnerships.

“We also emphasize that members of the public should report concerning posts rather than attempting to investigate or determine their credibility themselves. A screenshot or other information provided promptly to school officials or law enforcement can be extremely helpful in allowing us to preserve evidence and begin an assessment.

Kott concluded, “Our goal is always to take potential threats seriously while making decisions based on facts and evidence rather than fear or social media speculation. We want students and staff to be safe, but we also recognize the importance of minimizing unnecessary disruption when an investigation determines that a threat is not credible.”