Increased security at Beth-Center, Frazier football game after threat
An anonymous and since-deleted threat posted to Facebook overnight Thursday has prompted increased security at tonight’s football game at Bethlehem-Center as the district hosts Frazier.
The alleged threat was observed by a Beth-Center student who reported to administration officials that the post was put up in an anonymous Facebook group and was left up for about 30 minutes Thursday evening, according to Frazier superintendent Bill Henderson.
“Beth-Center was made aware of the noncredible threat. Because of that, we are taking precautions and increasing security at tonight’s game,” Henderson said.
A letter signed by Beth-Center principal Amanda Kinneer was sent to parents and posted to the Facebook group “Bethlehem Center Area News and Events.” The letter advised those attending this evening’s game to allow extra time to enter the gates due to increased security and screening measures. The letter states that purses, backpacks or any type of handbag is prohibited, while other personal items and persons themselves will be searched with metal detector wands. The letter adds children 12 or younger must be supervised.
The exact nature of the threat was not clear, but Henderson said it was directed at the time and place of the football game at Beth-Center. East Bethlehem Township police and state police will be part of the increased security detail, Henderson said.
“We made parents aware as soon as we had confirmed information and investigators could confirm what was going on. Letters were sent out through both districts and we used our one-call phone system to let parents know what was going on,” Henderson said.