NCJ Number
197362
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 71 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2002 Pages: 6-7
Date Published
October 2002
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article describes how investigators should assess anonymous bomb threats at schools.
Abstract
The author explains that when law enforcement investigators are assessing anonymous school bomb threats, there are many behavioral science techniques that should be employed such as statement analysis, psycholinguistics, and forensic stylistics. First, investigators should evaluate whether the bomb threat passes the reality test. Are the threat and the offender based in reality or is there a lack of credibility present? Perhaps the offender suffers from mental health problems that invalidate the bomb threat. Second, investigators should examine the language of the threat to look for evidence of commitment to the threat. Specific language detailing exactly how the bombing is to be carried out suggests a level of commitment to the threat, whereas unspecific threats connote that the offender is not seriously considering bombing his target. The third area of analysis should focus on the offenders’ ability to carry out the threat. If the offender provides accurate and appropriate details about the plan or the weapon to be used, it is more likely that the offender has the ability to carry out the attack. Finally, the fourth area to be investigated is motive. Does the offender mention a justifiable motive behind the threatened attack? If so, it is important to take the threat seriously. The author explains that investigating these four areas of concern will help investigators and administrators accurately assess the bomb threat so as to respond appropriately.