LBHS to beef up security Tuesday following 'unfounded' threat

UPDATED- Superintendent of School's David Weiss released the following statement Tuesday afternoon: 

"As a follow up to yesterday's messaging regarding a written threatening message targeted to the high school for today, Tuesday, Dec. 8, I am writing to inform you that the district learned of new comments written on a student desk referencing that today’s threat would take place tomorrow. The police were notified and have informed us that they have made an arrest. The district does not tolerate such threats, pranks and rumors. We suggest parents talk to their children about the severity of such behaviors and the potential long-term negative consequences associated with such actions."

The Herald will continue to update this story

Long Beach High School is increasing its security on Tuesday following a threat made against the school that officials and police ultimately determined was not credible.

Though officials emphasized that the building is safe, in a statement on the district’s website on Monday, Schools Superintendent David Weiss said that the district is taking precautions and would increase security at the high school, including a greater police presence and bag checks throughout the day.

According to Weiss, on Monday morning, a comment was discovered on the surface of a student desk describing a future threat to the high school on Tuesday. Additionally, a possible verbal threat was made over the weekend, although that incident was unrelated and determined not to be a threat at all.

“Police were immediately notified of the situation and a joint investigation between the district and law enforcement officials was conducted,” Weiss said. “It was also reported that a possible verbal threat was made over the weekend, off school grounds. This was also investigated and was deemed unfounded.”

School officials did not say specifically what the comment on a desk filled graffiti contained, only to say that a “threatening statement” was made against the building and said that such threats are taken seriously.

“We investigate every threat but there has been no credible evidence found and we’re comfortable with the path we’re taking,” School Board President Roy Lester told the Herald.

In his statement, Weiss said:

“In an effort to ensure the safety and security of students and staff, and out of an abundance of caution, there will be increased security at the high school tomorrow, December 8. All staff, students, and visitors will enter through the main entry in the Lower Commons, and bag checks will be conducted throughout the day. We have also requested a greater police presence throughout the day, as well as an overnight search of the school from the Nassau County Police Department 4th Precinct. We will continue to work with local law enforcement to ensure school safety.”