Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office reports it has identified a suspect in Florida responsible for a series of false threats targeting Jackson-area schools and other institutions. The Sheriff’s Office says the suspect impersonated a former Grass Lake Schools student to make these hoax threats, known as “swatting,” which prompt immediate police responses. Local targets included schools and a doctor’s office, with similar incidents reported in California and Arizona.

One swatting incident occurred at Grass Lake High School on October 13. Although it was a Sunday and no students were on campus, authorities conducted a thorough search of the entire Grass Lake Schools campus. Four other area school districts also received similar threats.

The Sheriff’s Office credits Detective Kelly Ebersole with uncovering the true identity of the suspect, a teenager in Cape Coral, Florida, who is now facing charges in Florida. The Sheriff’s Office emphasized its commitment to pursuing prosecution for swatting cases, which are both disruptive and costly.