David Clark, Deputy Chief of Police
15 Union St.
Reading, MA 01867
For Immediate Release
Friday, Nov. 9, 2018
Media Contact: Jessica Sacco
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: jessica@jgpr.net
Reading Police Investigating After Scam Call Made to Preschool
READING — Deputy Chief David Clark reports that the Reading Police Department responded to a private preschool this afternoon to investigate after a scam phone call was placed from overseas demanding money from the establishment.
An investigation by Reading Police, in consultation with the FBI, determined that there was no actual danger to anyone at the preschool.
At approximately 3 p.m., Reading Police received a call from a man who stated he would harm people at 5 Senses School, located at 1381 Main St., if he did not receive ransom money. The school services toddlers through children in pre-kindergarten.
Police immediately responded to the scene, and out of an abundance of caution, placed the school on lock down while they conducted a search of the interior and exterior. Nothing dangerous was found inside our outside the building.
At the same time, Reading Police traced the call, which came back to a number registered in Jamaica, as did the address the suspect gave for wiring the money he was demanding.
Reading Police are currently on scene assisting with dismissal, and the school will resume regular hours next week.
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