Officials respond to statewide email threat targeting Florida schools

No credible threat found; local deputies to increase patrols as precaution

The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and both the Holmes District and Washington County School Boards are reassuring parents and students tonight after a disturbing email threat was received by school superintendents across Florida earlier today.

According to the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), the email which was sent to multiple districts statewide, contained a bomb threat and a demand for cryptocurrency payment. The message claimed that explosive devices had been placed on school campuses and demanded $1,000 in Ethereum in exchange for information about the alleged bomb locations.

HCSO emphasized that investigators do not believe the threat to be credible, but said they are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of students and staff.

“Out of an abundance of caution, HCSO Resource Deputies will report early tomorrow morning to check and clear the schools before students arrive,” the agency stated.

The sheriff’s office confirmed that the email and all related data have been forwarded to the Cyber Terrorism Task Force for analysis to determine the source and authenticity of the message.

The Holmes District School Board also addressed the situation, noting that many superintendents throughout Florida received similar communications.

“The email was very vague and generalized,” district officials said in a public notice. “Local law enforcement and Department of Education officials have been notified. There appears to be no credible threat at this time. The safety of our students and staff is our highest priority, and we remind everyone that if you see something, say something.”

In neighboring Washington County, district officials confirmed they received a nearly identical “swatting” email, referring to the practice of issuing false emergency threats intended to cause panic or elicit a law enforcement response.

“While we do not believe this is a credible threat, we have worked closely and will continue to work closely with our local and state law enforcement officials,” the Washington County School District stated. “There will be an increase in law enforcement at all Washington County District Schools tomorrow as a precaution. Students and their safety will always be the number one priority.”

Both districts urge parents and community members to remain calm but vigilant as law enforcement continues its investigation. Additional updates will be released as more information becomes available.