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On November 28, 2024, at approximately 1:56pm the 1 District (St. Catharines/Thorold) uniform officers from the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) responded to Brock University Campus in St. Catharines regarding a threats call for service.

The NRPS was contacted by INTERPOL Washington after they were contacted by the social media app “Snapchat”.  Snapchat had alerted INTERPOL after a Thorold based user made a threatening post towards Brock University.

Officers attended the Campus and were able to quickly identify the adult female suspect.  The investigation lead officers to a residence in Thorold.  The female was located and arrested at 3:16pm for uttering a threat.    Following the arrest, officers determined there was no further safety concerns stemming from the incident.  Regular campus activities were not interrupted due to the incident.  The reach of the initial post was determined to be low.

1 District detectives were assigned to the investigation.  The threat was reportedly intended as a joke but took a severely criminal turn.  The 20-year-old female Brock student was extremely remorseful and apologetic.  She was released from police custody without charge.   The NRPS will continue to liaise with Brock University regarding this incident and the student’s conduct.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the investigating officers by calling 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1004233.

24-133528

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The Niagara Regional Police Service is urging the community to understand the serious consequences of making online threats, even when intended as a joke. Threats, whether made in person or online, are treated as real until proven otherwise, as public safety is the highest priority.

Things to Consider:

  • Understand the Law: Threats, regardless of intent, can lead to criminal charges. A "joke" online can result in an arrest, court appearances, and a criminal record, which can impact future education and career opportunities.
  • The Real-World Impact: Online threats disrupt schools, cause fear and anxiety, and drain community resources as law enforcement investigates every report thoroughly.
  • Think Before You Post:  Social media is not anonymous, and any statement that causes fear or alarm can have lasting consequences.
  • Parental Guidance Is Key: Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss responsible online behavior with their children, emphasizing the consequences of poor digital choices.

The NRPS is committed to ensuring the safety of all schools and takes every threat seriously. We remind the public that even seemingly harmless jokes can have profound and unintended consequences.

If you or someone you know becomes aware of any threats to public safety, report them immediately by calling 911 or your local police.