FALLSBURG— In a concerning pattern, Fallsburg Central School District faced its third threat in just five weeks. 

On the morning of October 23, Dr. Ivan Katz, Superintendent for the Fallsburg Central School District, told parents that both Benjamin Cosor Elementary School (BCES) and the Junior-Senior High School were placed on lockout following an anonymous threat. 

According to Dr. Katz, it all began when a sixth-grade student reported receiving a threatening message late the previous night.

“During a lockout, the schools and school grounds are secured. Everyone remains inside and instruction continues as normal,” Dr. Katz said to the parents in a letter posted on their website.

Later that day, Dr. Katz issued a follow-up letter confirming that an arrest had been made. 

“I was just informed by the Fallsburg Police Department that they have arrested the person responsible for making the school threat,” Dr. Katz stated.

Fallsburg Police Chief Brendan Pavese said, “Unfortunately, we arrested another 12 year old juvenile from Pine Bush for making a terroristic threat, a felony against the Fallsburg Central School District.”

“But at the end of the day the subject was brought to justice. I want to commend my staff for continuing to not leave any stones unturned while investigating these crimes,” added Chief Pavese. 

Dr. Katz said the district is also working with the Fallsburg Police Chief and the Sullivan County District Attorney to plan school assemblies aimed at educating students on the serious consequences of making threats.