Canterbury Police can confirm that an investigation is underway following reports in the last week that two families, whose children attend Mt Pleasant School, have received letters demanding money and threatening harm to children.
Detective Inspector Murton says Canterbury Police are working closely with the families involved and Mount Pleasant School. “Police are treating this matter very seriously and we have a team of Detectives working to identify the author of these letters. We have increased Police patrols in the area and also put additional security in place for the families involved. While there is no evidence of a genuine threat towards any children at Mount Pleasant School parents have been advised of the existence of the letters.”
“It is too early in the investigation to draw any conclusions and Police won’t speculate on who may have sent these letters. Police are confident that the steps taken will ensure the safety of the children and families involved. Mount Pleasant School has contacted all of the parents who have children at the school to advise them of the current situation” says Detective Inspector Murton.
“I would like to reassure the public that Canterbury Police are committed to resolving this matter as soon as possible so that all of the families involved can feel safe in their community” said Detective Inspector Murton.
Canterbury Police urge anyone who receives any similar letters or has any information about this matter to call Christchurch Central Police Station on 03 363 7400.
Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Media note – Detective Inspector Murton is not available this afternoon for any interviews but an audio file of him verbalising this release is available from the Canterbury District Communications Manager.
ENDS
Media contact: Lisa-Marie Brooks, District Communications Manager, Canterbury Police District. Mobile: 021 942 404