Threats Against Sayville Schools Sparks Outcry For Armed Guards

SAYVILLE, NY — "Threatening content" posted on social media against the Sayville Union Free School District has sparked an outcry for armed guards at Sayville schools amid an investigation led by the Suffolk County Police Department and interstate law enforcement.

In early November, "disturbing comments" mentioning "Sayville public schools" were written in a post on "X" viewed by Patch.

According to an email from Sayville UFSD Superintendent Marc Ferris to "Sayville Families," the threats were posted by a 34-year-old male and former Sayville UFSD student "whose last known residence was Holbrook."

Ferris said the posts included "threats of violence to himself and others" and although they were "not specific" to Sayville schools, he was making "general threats of violence" and "mentioned" Sayville schools.

"Fifth Precinct Crime Section officers are investigating a threatening post on social media. There is no direct threat to Sayville or any location in Suffolk County," police told Patch on Wednesday. "The department is working with our partners in law enforcement to locate the suspect."

Since learning of the threats, Sayville parents are petitioning for armed guards on school campuses and are asking residents to contact school board members, demanding the request be honored.

On Nov. 12, Ferris sent a follow-up email to families, writing:

"I am writing to update you regarding the individual who posted worrisome and threatening content on social media. This evening I met with officers at the 5th precinct and there are two important points for you to know:

"1. Regarding the individual: The SCPD has been working with Florida law enforcement, the FBI, and the Port Authority to locate and arrest him. While he is not yet in custody, police in Florida are actively searching in the Port St. Lucie area, which is the most recent identifiable location.

"The 5th precinct police informed me there is 'No actionable intelligence stating he is targeting Sayville' and it is believed he is not in the State of New York.

"I would like to be able to provide 100 percent assurance, but I cannot at this time. I am confident SCPD is utilizing all available resources and doing all they can to locate this individual and bring him into custody. I am grateful for their clear communication and support throughout this ordeal.

Ferris continues, saying that "out of an abundance of caution, in addition to our security team, there will be patrol cars at each of our schools for arrival and dismissal tomorrow."

Ferris added that there will be "increased school safety checks by SCPD" and a photo of the man who made the threats would be circulated among staff.

School representatives told Patch on Wednesday there are no updates since Ferris' Nov. 12 email.