Today, the Jackson Federal Bureau of Investigation Field Office and the United States Attorney’s Office, would like to educate the public and create community awareness on recent bomb threats that have been taking place throughout Mississippi.

 

The FBI and our partners follow up on every tip we receive from the public, and analyze and investigate all threats to determine their credibility. Federal, state, and local law enforcement then employ a full range of tools to mitigate those threats which are deemed credible. Making false threats drains law enforcement resources and cost taxpayers a lot of money. When an investigation concludes there was a false or hoax threat made to an institution, or another public place, a federal charge could be considered, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. If a federal charge is not warranted, state charges can be considered.

 

“The FBI prioritizes the protection of community members from those who seek to intimidate and bring fear upon citizens,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Jackson Field Office. “We remain committed to tirelessly seeking out those individuals and holding them accountable for their nefarious actions intended to instill fear upon citizens based on biases.”

 

“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to ensuring the safety of citizens of all races and religions,” said U.S. Attorney Todd Gee. “All threats are taken very seriously, and we will continue to work closely with the FBI to bring to justice those who choose to incite fear in our communities.”

 

Public assistance is crucial to our efforts to curb these hoax threats. We ask that the public continue to contact law enforcement to report any potential threats or suspicious activity.

If there is any reason to believe the safety of others is at risk, we ask that the public immediately reach out to their local police department by calling 911, or contact the Jackson FBI via tips.fbi.gov or over the phone (1-800-CALL-FBI). As always, members of the public can call the Jackson FBI field office to report a tip at (601) 948-5000.

 

Early intervention can prevent a situation from escalating by identifying, assessing, and managing the threat.  Remember, if you see something, say something.