Fake Threats Made to Communities Across Illinois

As of Wednesday afternoon, the Illinois State Police (ISP) had reported local law enforcement in 19 counties, totaling 21 calls, received threats directed towards schools.

Responders did not locate any actual threats as a result of these calls.  The ISP Statewide Terrorism and Intelligence Center had no information concerning credible threats related to school safety.  Law enforcement, public safety, and private sector security officials are encouraged to remain vigilant and report all suspicious behavior to local police agencies.  

Communities in Illinois, and across the country, are experiencing what is referred to as swatting – dangerous and illegal fake calls about an active shooter situation, typically at a school.  While state and national intelligence agencies have seen a pattern of these fake calls, each call is taken seriously. 

Counties in Illinois that reported calls Wednesday include Champaign, Cook, DuPage, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Lee, Macon, Sangamon, Stephenson, Williamson, Winnebago, Madison, Marion, McLean, Morgan, Peoria, Pike and Saline.