Bethel Police: Yesterday’s Bomb Threat Was a Hoax

Report by Paula Antolini, December 14, 2018, 8:15AM EDT

Yesterday the Bethel PoliceDepartment released the following statement about the bomb threats from Thursday, December 13, 2018, saying it was a hoax:

“The Bethel Police Department is aware of the email style “bomb threat” that has been sent out across the country this afternoon to residents, private businesses, and other agencies. This has been determined to be a hoax and does not appear to be a credible threat. Residents and business owners are advised to use all normal precautions and to contact the Bethel Police Department should you receive some type of “threat.” Today’s email “threat” involved the sender demanding Bitcoin payment in order to prevent detonation of the alleged “bomb.” DO NOT arrange for Bitcoin or any other form of payment in response to receiving this “threat.” Any questions should be directed to the Bethel Police Department at 203-744-7900.”

On 12-13-18 Danbury Police said,”Currently multiple jurisdictions across the country, including multiple organizations in Danbury have received bomb threats. It appears the threats are being delivered via email and contain a bitcoin wallet address for a ransom payment. Investigations are active but as of this time, no devices have been located. If your organization receives such an Email, please do not delete the message; contact the Danbury Police Department for directions.” Released by Lt. Mark Williams.

The Ridgefield Police Department released this statement 16 hours ago: “The Ridgefield Police Department is currently investigating reports of e-mailed bomb threats. Members of our Uniform and Detective Divisions are following up on these incidents. The emails are similar to ones received across Connecticut today. It appears, but is not yet confirmed, that these emails are part of a mass mailing. You may report receipt of these emails or any suspicious activity to RPD at 203-438-6531.”

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