West Virginia Governor Justice discusses response to school shooting threat

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – After a series of school shooting threats this week, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice announced plans Thursday to address the issue.

He said he has made the West Virginia Fusion Center the central investigative agency for all threats of violence received at more than 45 schools across the state.

West Virginia Department of Education: Threats occurring throughout the state

“The governor also directed state authorities to work in a coordinated manner and carefully investigate social media posts and alerts circulating in communities across the state,” the governor's office said in a press release.

“We will vigorously pursue these offenders and anyone who creates an unsafe environment for our children. I simply will not tolerate it. Not for one moment,” Justice said in the press release. “Each and every one of these threats will be investigated and all of our resources will work together to protect our students, our schools and our communities.”

The governor said, “The West Virginia Department of Homeland Security and other law enforcement agencies are aware of this and are working with local, state and federal partners to monitor and investigate all tips and information received.”

Justice also said a conference call was held Thursday with school inspectors from across the state to discuss the threats, ongoing responses, and security measures and protocols already in place.

People are encouraged to report any threats by calling their local emergency number 911 or using the My Mobile Witness reporting app.

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