Bomb Threat Evacuates Cobb County Courthouse

MARIETTA, GA -- The Cobb County courthouse was evacuated late Thursday afternoon after a bomb threat was received, according to police. The courthouse in Marietta was one of several locations across the nation that received the threats, similar to those that caused five DeKalb County schools to be locked down Thursday morning.

A statement from the FBI said, “We are aware of the recent bomb threats made in cities around the country, and we remain in touch with our law enforcement partners to provide assistance. As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety.”

Five DeKalb County schools were locked down Thursday morning after each of them received bomb threats. Dunwoody police said at 7:22 am Thursday morning, someone called in a bomb threat to Dunwoody Elementary School. The DeKalb County school district said public safety officers were sent to each school to assist with local police in determining the validity of the threats. None of the threats were found to be credible.

Dunwoody police said the threats appear to be "swatting" incidents and they have found no credible threat to any school. 911.gov describes "swatting" as "false reporting an emergency to public safety by a person for the intent of getting a ("SWAT team") response to a location where no emergency exists. The calling party will often report they are involved or nearby as a witness to a home invasion, active shooter, or hostage situation, attempting to muster the largest response possible. Often, the law enforcement response is substantial, with police confronting the unsuspecting victims at gunpoint, only to learn that there is no real emergency."

On Nov. 27, all Decatur city schools were locked down for almost an entire day after police received several threats against multiple schools. Decatur police received reports of a bomb threat against one school and threats of gun violence against two others. No evidence was found.

SEE ALSO: Decatur School Threats Cancel After School Plans, Early Checkouts

More details as they become available.

SEE ALSO:

Five DeKalb Schools Locked Down Thursday After Bomb Threats

Bomb Threats Reported Across NYC, Cops Say

'No Threat' At Columbine HS After Bomb Scare: Sheriff

Charlotte Police Investigating 'Multiple' Bomb Threats

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