CLARENCE, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Erie County Sheriff's Office is investigating graffiti that consisted of hate speech and an active threat to Clarence High School.
It was found on the Town of Clarence Bike Trail off of Main Street and has since been covered up.
"It has absolutely no place in today's society in any way, shape or form, and those that perpetrate something like this need to know that it's a cascading effect," said Lt. Jeremy Lehning.
There is no credible threat, per ECSO.
"We're gonna make sure that everybody feels safe, it's very important also for parents to know that their children are safe, they also need to bring a calm, cool, collected demeanor," said Lt. Lehning.
While they investigate, they'll have an increased presence at Clarence High School and all schools in the Clarence School District. Anyone with information is asked to call 716-858-2903.
On Tuesday, the sheriff's office announced the case remains under investigation and specific information cannot be released, but issued the following statement:
"As there have been 395* mass shootings in the United States this year, we must take each threat such as this with the utmost seriousness. There is far too much at stake to do nothing. That is why the Erie County Sheriff’s Office took a proactive approach when these messages first came to our attention on Monday. Patrol, the Community Engagement Team, Detective Bureau and Behavioral Threat Assessment Team worked in conjunction to determine the validity of the threat. No information indicating a credible threat was identified. As we continue to investigate, anyone with information on this case is urged to call (716) 858-2903.
To ensure peace of mind for the students, families and staff of the Clarence Central School District, the Erie County Sheriff's Office increased its presence at each of the district's schools. That increased presence continued today. We thank the Clarence Central School District and the Town of Clarence for working with us throughout this process.
It is important that law enforcement and members of the community work together to identify and address indicators of threatening behavior. Using a multidisciplinary approach, we can interrupt the pathway to violence.
With support from our governmental partners – including the Erie County Legislature – the Erie County Sheriff’s Office has worked diligently since Sheriff Garcia took office to reorganize in a way that allows us to address the growing risk of mass violence. The formation of the Behavioral Threat Assessment Team in 2022 created a clearinghouse to investigate threats. The Community Engagement Team, launched earlier this year, offers an avenue for citizens to report concerning behavior directly to deputies they know and trust.
Each student must be able to focus on their studies. Each parent must be able to send their child to school knowing they are safe. Each teacher must be able to walk into their classroom without a second thought."
Authorities in the Town of Tonawanda are also investigating another case of graffiti at a local park.
Racial slurs and vulgar language were spray-painted across Kenney Park sometime before Sunday morning. You can watch our report below and read more here.
