Teens arrested after threatening email received by Gravesend schools

Two teenagers have been arrested after a threatening email was received by schools in the Gravesend area.

Shortly before 8am on Thursday 13 February 2025, Kent Police received reports that a school in Northfleet had been sent a malicious communication in the early hours of the morning.

Investigation

Officers attended and liaised with staff at the scene. Further reports were received from schools in Gravesham relating to similar emails and staff members were given words of advice.

The correspondence was suspected not to present a credible threat. Officers remained in the area for reassurance and an investigation was launched.

Arrest

Later the same day, officers arrested a 17 year old girl from Gravesend on suspicion of harassment. 

On Friday 14 February, constables also detained a 17 year old boy from Finchley, London in connection with the incident. 

Both suspects have since been bailed to return to the police station, pending further enquiries.

Chief Inspector Will Lay said:

'Keeping people safe in our communities is our utmost priority and we carried out a prompt response as soon as this incident was reported to us. Our enquiries quickly identified that the email received was unlikely to contain a credible threat of harm.
'Understandably, there has been considerable concern amongst the local community, while schools have faced significant disruption. I hope it offers further reassurance to those in Gravesham that an arrest has been made and an investigation is ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the incident.'

Appeal

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with relevant information is urged to contact Kent Police on 01474 366149 quoting 46/24986/25.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or you can complete the online form.