Tik Tok Threat Leads To Increased Police At Cinnaminson Schools

CINNAMINSON, NJ — Cinnaminson police have increased their presence in the township's schools in response to a nationwide "challenge" on the social media app Tik Tok warning of the potential for school violence on Friday.

"The Cinnaminson Police Department had a stronger police presence this morning at all schools to ensure all students, staff, and parents felt safe," Cinnaminson Police Chief Richard Calabrese said. "We will be monitoring throughout the day as well."

The increase is in response to the "Shoot Up Your School Challenge," which was addressed by the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness on Thursday.

"At this time, there appears to have been a generic threat shared on social media that has impacted various school districts," Homeland Security said in a statement. "We believe these posts to be non-credible threats at this time, however, all threats are being reviewed, assessed, and shared with appropriate law enforcement entities throughout the State."

Anyone who has any information about potential threats can make a report any time of the day to NJOHSP's CTWatch at 866-4SAFENJ (866-472-3365) or tips@njohsp.gov.

Several families chose to keep their children home on Friday, according to Cinnaminson Superintendent Stephen Cappello. He didn't share exact numbers with Patch.

"We are asking the community to remain vigilant during this time and to promptly report any

suspicious activity that you observe or hear about," Cappello said in a letter to the school community that went out Thursday night. "We will provide updates to the community if the situation changes or additional actions are necessary."