As bomb threats and “swatting” incidents become more prevalent, Rockland’s Sheriff will soon be unveiling a new investigative unit to help combat and prevent them. A 14 year-old was arrested earlier this week by Ramapo Police in connection with a bomb threat called in to Suffern High School last September. Emergency responders Monday in the nation’s capital had a false alarm at the White House after a 911 caller claimed there was a fire in the building. Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco says incidents like these can be prevented or handled more efficiently with a new group he’s in the process of forming that combines the resources of his department, local police, plus mental health and school officials…
The reason kids pull these kinds of dangerous pranks? Falco says some like to see the police response, ignoring the dangers they put others in when that happens. Kids tend to brag about their so-called “accomplishments,” and Falco says that usually gets them caught. Two Republican Senators introduced legislation yesterday that would establish strict penalties – up to 20 years in prison – for swatting incidents that lead to serious injury.