Johnston Police get another threat

Increased police presence planned at Warwick schools

Daniel Kittredge
Posted 10/23/14

For the second time this month, Johnston Police have received a threatening letter targeting schools in Johnston, Cranston and Warwick.

The letter was received Wednesday and mentions Tuesday, …

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Johnston Police get another threat

Increased police presence planned at Warwick schools

Posted

For the second time this month, Johnston Police have received a threatening letter targeting schools in Johnston, Cranston and Warwick.

The letter was received Wednesday and mentions Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week, officials said. It is less specific than a letter received earlier this month, which mentioned beheading and targeted elementary schools between Oct. 8 and Oct. 10, but is believed to be from the same author, according to officials.

“We are doing everything that’s humanly possible to ensure the safety of the students, as well as the faculty and staff,” said Johnston Mayor Joseph Polisena, who along with Warwick Mayor Scott Avedisian was awaiting Cranston Mayor Allan Fung at Johnston Town Hall for a meeting on the situation late Wednesday afternoon.

“This letter is less alarming, but it’s still going to get a full response from everybody,” Avedisian said.

The chiefs from all three communities met together and with their respective superintendents on Wednesday to discuss the situation, and parents were also notified. An additional law enforcement presence is planned as schools in the three communities.

Polisena would not discuss the specifics of the security steps being taken in Johnston.

Cranston Superintendent Dr. Judith Lundsten in a notice to the community said police will “heighten security at drop off, dismissal, recess and outside events. In addition, there will be random patrols at all schools.”

Avedisian said Warwick Police would have a “continued presence” at schools during opening and closing times.

Police continued to work with state and federal law enforcement agencies as they investigate the threats. Anyone with information is asked to contact Johnston detectives at 231-4210.

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