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Winnipeg police are urging parents to talk with their children about the serious consequences of making threats against schools, while assuring the public that a recent series of threats across the city have all been deemed non-credible.
At a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Staff Sgt. Shaun Venn said the Winnipeg Police Service responded to 11 calls for service between February 3 and February 19 involving threats targeting schools.
“To date, it’s been determined that all 11 threats have been determined to not be credible threats,” Venn said.
However, he stressed the impact on school communities is significant.
“When our children are in school, they shouldn’t have to worry about their safety. Teachers shouldn’t have to worry about managing these high-stress situations,” he said.
Arrests and investigations
Police say two youths and one adult woman from Toronto have been arrested in connection with separate threats. Several investigations remain ongoing and are being handled by the Major Crimes Unit.
One of the youths arrested was just 10 years old. Venn said the child has been referred to Manitoba’s Turnabout program, which supports children under 12 who are at risk of entering the justice system by working with families and connecting them with community resources.
Venn said the case underscores the importance of school resource officers in preventing young people from becoming further involved in the justice system.
Related stories:
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- Classes resume at Garden City Collegiate with boosted security after threat
During questions from reporters, Venn addressed what he called the “real-life impact” of threats, even when they turn out to be pranks.
He said a large police presence at schools can be traumatic for children, with potential long-lasting psychological effects.
Venn had a direct message for anyone who may view threats as jokes or an easy way to get out of school.
“These are serious criminal offences,” he said.
Reassurance for families
Police say they have shifted resources from other departments to thoroughly investigate each threat.
Constable Pat Saydak reassured families that students should not be afraid to attend school, saying officers are working hard to keep school communities safe.
Anyone with information about the threats is asked to contact the Winnipeg Police Service Major Crimes Unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
