FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Friday, Jan. 18, 2019

Media Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Melrose Police Conduct Controlled Entry at Middle School Friday Morning after Rumored Threat

MELROSE — Chief Michael L. Lyle and Superintendent of Schools Cyndy S. Taymore report that Melrose Police officers and school officials worked together today to conduct an orderly and smooth “controlled entrance” at the Melrose Veterans Memorial Middle School on Friday morning after rumors last evening of a violent threat against the school community.

In the event of a rumored threat, a controlled entry is a process in which school officials work with the police department to ensure that everyone coming into the school, enters via the same entryway and their identities are verified. Backpacks are also searched to ensure no weapons are brought into the building. The intention of a controlled entry is to provide a level of security and reassurance, while not greatly impacting the school day.

Last evening, school administrators received multiple reports of a rumor involving a student who had made a threat to commit a violent act at the school on Friday. The threat did not target any specific individuals. The Melrose Police Department was immediately notified, and a plan was put into place, drawing upon the resources and expertise of the Northeastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council  School Threat Assessment and Response System (NEMLEC STARS) for guidance.

Students were allowed in via the main entrance. The arrivals were orderly and conducted without incident or any major delays or disruptions to the school day, which began at 8:15 a.m.

Officials stress that these actions were taken out of an abundance of caution. At no time were students or the school community in danger.

“We take threats very seriously, and we take nothing for granted,” said Middle School Principal Jaime Parsons. “We are very pleased with how things went this morning. The safety of our students is our first priority, and I am very grateful for the response and resources brought in by law enforcement to ensure an orderly start to our school day.”

“Melrose is a charter NEMLEC member, and the members of its STARS program are nationally recognized for their ability to help communities manage these types of situations,” added Chief Lyle. “I am pleased with the behavior and cooperation of our students, faculty and staff today who all worked together to ensure a smooth start to the day.”

The Middle School resumed its normal schedule of activities after the controlled entry.

The incident remains under investigation.

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