BURLINGTON – Chief Thomas P. Browne reports that the Burlington Police Department identified an individual who made a potentially threatening Facebook post that was directed at a school department employee, and determined the post was not meant to convey a threat.
On Saturday, Burlington Police became aware of a post on Facebook that was directed at a school department employee, and which contained potentially threatening language.
Police launched an immediate investigation, and were able to determine the post was made from a newly created Facebook account that included a fake name. Police were additionally able to identify the individual who created the account and made the post as a former school department employee.
Burlington Police spoke with the individual in question and conducted a threat assessment that determined there is no immediate threat. The individual who made the post intended to make a political comment, but had no ill will nor intent to threaten anyone.
Because no criminal charges will be filed, Burlington Police are not identifying the individual behind the post.
“Burlington Police take all threats against residents and public officials with the utmost seriousness, and I am pleased to report our investigation into this matter revealed no active threats,” said Chief Browne. “Public officials should be able to conduct their duties without fear of intimidation. I encourage all residents to use common sense when posting on social media to alleviate the potential lack of context that inevitably occurs in emotional conversations.”