SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — One person was arrested Wednesday in South Portland after police allegedly consulted with the FBI in an investigation surrounding community threats.
The South Portland Police Department stated in a release that its investigation with the FBI also included consultation with the Cumberland County District Attorney's Office.
Police said the evidence gathered will result in multiple charges, including criminal mischief, theft by unauthorized taking, arson, and more.
"In addition to these crimes, several threats to cause serious harm to individuals and groups using specific weapons were verified. Due to the violent nature of these threats, this case was assessed as a high-risk arrest, and a decision was made to use the Southern Maine Regional SWAT Team to make the arrest and facilitate a search of the individual’s home," the release stated.
The investigation is ongoing, police said.
Video sent to NEWS CENTER Maine by a viewer showed police taking a person into custody at a home on Elm Street around 5:30 p.m. The street was closed to traffic between Robinson and Chapel streets for over an hour.
South Portland Police, the Portland Police Tactical Team, and a bomb squad unit were all on the scene.
In a letter to South Portland families and staff Thursday morning, South Portland Superintendent of Schools Tim Matheney said "a youth in the community" was arrested Wednesday.
"Dear South Portland families and staff,
As you may have heard, the Police Department arrested a youth in the community yesterday evening for charges that included arson, criminal mischief, and theft.
I have been in regular communication with the Police Department since the arrest. We have been assured by the Police that our schools continue to be safe and secure, and we are looking forward to welcoming our students to this early release day leading into April vacation.
As this is entirely a law enforcement matter at this time, we ask that you direct any questions to the SPPD.
As is always the case, the safety and security of our schools is of paramount importance, and we appreciate our strong collaboration with the Police Department.
Sincerely,
Tim Matheney, Superintendent of Schools"