A violent threat was allegedly made against Proviso East High School, leading law enforcement to send additional security to the building on Thursday, Dec. 9 and prompting school officials to release a statement reassuring families that “safety is our highest priority.”
Messages left with district and school administrators, as well as the Maywood Police Department, were not immediately returned. It is unclear precisely where the threats were made, what the threats involved and whether or not a suspect has been identified or arrested.
The Cook County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) said threats against “East High School” were posted on social media Wednesday evening, at which time sheriff’s police were notified and began developing a plan for the following day.
Thursday morning, members of the sheriff’s police K9 unit and additional officers were stationed at the Maywood school when students and staff arrived “as a precaution,” according to a CCSO statement sent to the Review. An additional officer was also stationed at the school throughout the day.
In a statement posted on the Proviso Township High Schools District 209 website, Superintendent James Henderson said his office was made aware “of a threat that was levied against Proviso East High School.”
“We take this and all threats of violence seriously,” the statement continues. “I want to thank all the parents, students, staff, and members of the community who reached out to me with concerns … Safety is our highest priority and I assure you, we will continue to work closely with law enforcement to ensure our students and staff are safe on school grounds.”
The incident remains under investigation.
