Here's what the FBI said about uptick in hoax threats against Kentucky schools

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Kentucky has seen an uptick in the number of threats made against schools this month.

At least five students have been charged with felonies for hoax threats, including three children in Elizabethtown.

The threats, and arrests, come just days after four people were fatally shot at a Georgia high school.

FBI Louisville said investigators remain in close contact with local law enforcement agencies to assist with identifying and mitigating potential threats in the commonwealth.

"Remember, hoax threats are not a joke, and they can have devastating consequences -- both for the public and for the perpetrators," the agency said on Monday. "These threats disrupt school, waste resources, and put the first responders and innocent people in unnecessary danger."

RELATED: Jeffersonville police will investigate adults who shared fake school threats online instead of reporting them

Issuing a threat -- even over social media, through text message or email -- is considered a felony, according to FBI Louisville.

Students, teachers and parents were urged to remain vigilant and report any threats to law enforcement agencies urgently. Reports can also be made by calling the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or on the agency's website by clicking here.

RELATED: 16-year-old arrested for social media threat to Marion County High School

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