ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — Seven bomb threats in 43 days have been reported against the Huntington Local School District since mid-January, according to the Ross County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff George Lavender said that since Jan. 13, a total of seven bomb threats have been made against the district, with the most recent occurring yesterday. Authorities said each threat has been investigated and determined to be a hoax.
Lavender said his office requested assistance from the FBI early in the investigation. Sheriff’s investigators and federal agents are continuing to work to identify the person or persons responsible.
Multiple agencies have partnered in responding to the threats, including the Ohio Fire Marshal’s Office, the Ohio Department of Homeland Security, the Ohio Department of Public Safety, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and other state and local agencies.
Authorities said the coordinated response is intended to ensure the safety of students and staff and to minimize disruption to the school district.
The sheriff’s office said there will be an increased presence of law enforcement and public safety personnel in and around Ross County schools as a precautionary measure.
Southern Ohio Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 740-773-TIPS (8477).
The investigation remains ongoing.
The Guardian reached out to the FBI for comment multiple times. The agency has yet to respond.