Increased security at Preston schools following threat of violence

PRESTON — Authorities have increased security at Preston schools Thursday in response to a threat of violence, according to Preston School District 201 Superintendent Marc Gee.

Preston City Police and Franklin County Sheriff deputies have been stationed at each of the schools in the district.

Gee sent the following letter to parents:

Last night, a Facebook post was created encouraging violence against Preston School District. The threat was reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation last night by local law enforcement. Preston City Police Chief Peterson and Franklin County Sheriff Fryar have met with district administrators and have determined that the threat warrants continued police presence as a precaution, but that it does not pose a credible threat to the safety of our students.

Currently there are multiple uniformed officers located at all Preston School District Schools. They will remain in place throughout the school day.

We will continue holding classes on the normal schedule for the remainder of the day today. As is always the case, parents are welcome to come and release their students if they feel that is best,” states a notice from Gee sent via the district’s alert system to parents in the district.

The threat comes after an investigation was launched concerning a science teacher who fed a small, sick puppy to a turtle after school in front of students. Many in the community are standing behind the teacher and showing him support.