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Bomb Threat Made To High School In Region

Acting on a tip, the FBI and local law enforcement charged a person with allegedly making a bomb threat against a high school in the region.

Orchard View Alternative High School 

Orchard View Alternative High School 

Photo Credit: Pixabay/diegoparra and Google Maps street view

The incident occurred in Dutchess County on Sunday, Nov. 17. Dr. Dwight Bonk, superintendent of schools for the Wappinger Central School District, said the threat was made against Orchard View Alternative High School in Wappingers Falls.

Bonk said the FBI received a tip about some online activity that led them to a home in the District.

"The FBI, as well as the East Fishkill Police Department, were quick to notify us of the situation," Bonk said. "Thankfully, after a thorough investigation, it has been determined that this threat was non-credible."

East Fishkill Police Chief Cuccia and Dutchess County Sheriff Imperati confirmed that the person responsible for the threat had been located. The District will pursue criminal charges and handle this issue under the District Code of Conduct.

"We cannot stress this enough: It is so important for all of us to work together as a community to ensure our students have the safest schools possible so they can learn in a safe environment every day," Bonk said.

The superintendent added that every threat is treated seriously and is investigated in close consultation with law enforcement.

"The East Fishkill Police Department, New York State Police, Dutchess County Sheriff's Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are to be commended for all of their efforts today to complete this investigation and bring it to a swift close," Bonk said.

He also expressed gratitude for the diligence of Orchard View Principal Laura Distefano and District senior staff administration members.

Because the matter was deemed uncredible, the school will operate on a normal schedule on Monday, Nov. 18.

The FBI did not release the name of the person apprehended. 

This is a developing story. Check back to Daily Voice for updates. 

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