Bomb threats are on the rise in New Jersey's schools.
The state's Homeland Security and Preparedness Office says students have been evacuated at least 61 times this school year, a 27 percent increase over last year.
There were 19 evacuations in April, with an increase after the Boston Marathon bombings on April 15. Most took place on Mondays and Thursdays and were usually triggered by a note or graffiti.
“Although the majority of school bomb threats turn out to be pranks, school districts and law enforcement agencies must take each threat seriously because of the potential for injury and loss of life,” said a memo from state homeland security office director Edward Dickson obtained by The Record newspaper. “In the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings, it is imperative for law enforcement and schools to work together and remain vigilant against threats to our communities.”
Officials estimate it has cost $2 million to respond to the threats, which have turned out to be false.
Montville School Superintendent Paul Fried tells The Record he has asked police and parents to talk to children about the severity of false alarms.
