On Dec. 17, the Emmaus Police Department and other law enforcement authorities responded to Emmaus High School for credible threats which were sent through social media. The Emmaus Police Department launched an investigation to find the source of the troubling messages leading the East Penn School District to lock down Emmaus High School Friday morning. They were assisted by the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

On Dec. 18, Jason B. Apgar, deputy chief, Emmaus Police Department, released a statement saying a search warrant was executed and their investigation “revealed that the threats were a hoax orchestrated by a 14-year-old female juvenile.

“The juvenile has been charged with terroristic threats. This remains an ongoing investigation.”

“We wish to thank the Emmaus Police Department for coordinating an immediate and thorough investigation of the threats to Emmaus High School. We are fortunate to have strong community partners who protect the safety of our students and staff,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kristen Campbell said.

The district sent further communication Dec. 19 regarding the support in place for students and staff so they could “confidently return to Emmaus High School.”