MPS: Squad placed outside Riverside H.S. after "threats against schools involving individuals wearing clown masks"

MILWAUKEE -- A Milwaukee Public Schools spokeswoman tells FOX6 News a Milwaukee Police Department squad car was placed outside Riverside University High School Monday, October 3rd following "several non-specific online threats against schools involving individuals wearing clown masks."

The MPS spokeswoman said district officials are working closely with the Milwaukee Police Department to investigate any threats -- to assess their validity.

The spokeswoman noted that this has been a topic recently in national news, and the majority of instances across the country have been deemed a hoax.

The squad was placed outside Riverside University High School Monday "out of an abundance of caution."

The spokeswoman noted that at no time were students at the school or any other MPS school in any danger.

MPS officials are encouraging parents to report any concerns to police, and talk with their children about the appropriate use of social media.

The MPS spokeswoman said "safety is our number one priority, and children are safe in school."