Man Made Verbal Threat To Students And Staff In Greenwich Special Education Program, Police Say

GREENWICH, CT — An 18-year-old man is accused of making a verbal threat toward students and staff within the Community Connections Program in Greenwich, according to an announcement from the Greenwich Police Department.

The teen was arrested Monday and charged with second-degree threatening, a misdemeanor, following the incident that occurred earlier in the day, police said.

"The Community Connections staff immediately followed district safety protocols by contacting mental health providers, school security, and the student’s family. Due to the nature of the statement, the Greenwich Police Department was promptly notified," police said.

In coordination with Greenwich Public Schools officials, police conducted a threat assessment and determined that the threat was not credible, police said.

However, as a precaution, the majority of students were safely dismissed from the building while the assessment was completed. Police said the incident is believed to be isolated and there is no ongoing threat to the public or school community.

The Community Connections Program is under the umbrella of the Special Education Program in Greenwich Public Schools.

"The purpose of the Community Connections program is to prepare young adults with disabilities to be active, productive and integral members of their community," the GPS website notes. "Students participate in job training, volunteering, participating in college activities at Manhattanville, UCONN Stamford and NCC and recreation and leisure activities within the Greenwich Community."

Police reminded residents to report suspicious activity any time to 203-622-8004, or make a confidential report about criminal activity to TIPS@greenwichct.gov or 203-622-3333.