DUBUQUE – An Iowa school suffered a terrorism threat, and students and staff hid till late afternoon while cops searched for a bomb – then, another threat emerged.
On February 6, 2023, at 11:23 AM, the Dubuque 911 Center received an anonymous call reporting that there was a possible explosive device at Hempstead Highschool, 3715 Pennsylvania Avenue, Dubuque. Police analyzed the call and implemented their joint threat response protocols with the Dubuque Community School District. For their safety, students and staff were relocated within the school while officers searched the school and its exterior. The Dubuque Police Department concluded its search of the school at approximately 4 p.m. Police say no dangerous or explosive materials were located.
This incident is being actively investigated as a criminal act by police.
“Threats of terrorism, especially involving Dubuque students are taken very seriously,” local police said. “Both the Dubuque Police Department and the school district are working to identify the caller in this case. Making a threat of terrorism is a class “D” felony in Iowa, punishable by confinement of up to 5 years in prison. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to call the Dubuque Police Department.”
Then, at 6:45 AM on the morning of February 7, 2023, the Dubuque 911 Center received another call reporting threats of violence at Dubuque Hempstead High School. Police say they believe this call is related to the report made on Monday morning.
“While there is currently nothing to support this new reported threat, there will be an increased police presence at the school throughout the day,” police said. “Classes will run as scheduled. The Dubuque Police Department is actively investigating the source of both calls.”
