Saddle Brook student charged with making terroristic threats to schools

Police charged a Saddle Brook high school student with making terroristic threats for a threatening message that threw the township, Dover and Parsippany into a state of alarm.

The unidentified 17-year-old was also charged with cyber harassment and harassment for a Snapchat message he posted Monday that allegedly threatened "to kill people this week." The message spread through social media, prompting parents to keep their children home from school Wednesday.

"Immediately upon becoming aware of the disturbing post, police and school officials initiated a joint investigation and determined that, although there was no direct credible threat, extra precautions would be taken to ensure the safety of students and staff," Saddle Brook Mayor Robert White said in a statement.

Although the teenager was ultimately deemed not a threat, the message made its way to Dover, where district Superintendent James McLaughlin issued an alert Tuesday night notifying parents.

The Parsippany-Troy Hills Township School District received the same message and alerted parents Wednesday morning.

Police have already spoken with the teenager and his family, Police Capt. John Zotollo had said. The teen had originally made the threat against a friend, said Zotollo.

In Saddle Brook police added extra security Wednesday and will Monday when school opens again as well. 

"The Township and School District have a zero tolerance policy," White stated, "against any threats or acts of violence."  

Rodrigo Torrejon is a breaking news reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to all the major news happening in North Jersey, subscribe here. To get breaking news directly to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter.

Email: torrejon@northjersey.com Twitter: @rodrigotorrejon 

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