Police presence increased at Kealakehe schools after alleged threat

Police presence has been increased in the Kealakehe School Complex after an alleged threat was scrawled on a restroom stall.

In a letter to parents sent Thursday, Kealakehe High School Principal James Denight said the administration had been made aware of the alleged threat and notified the Hawaii Police Department. Purported images of the threat have been posted on social media, though officials would not confirm details Thursday.

“We are actively working with authorities on the investigation and safety protocols. All threats to our school and students are taken seriously and promptly investigated. I want to assure you we are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of our students and staff,” the letter provided by the Department of Education reads. “If you have any information about this alleged threat or any other safety threats to our school, please contact me immediately.”

Denise Laitinen, public relations specialist for the Hawaii Police Department, said police presence was increased at schools in the Kealakehe area as a “precautionary measure while we simultaneously seek out the responsible parties.”

”Hawaii Police Department takes these types of threats seriously and is investigating the incident at Kealakehe School Complex,” she said.