Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
Matt Sepic

Probing threats to Jewish centers top priority for FBI

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

The head of the Twin Cities FBI office says investigating bomb threats to Jewish institutions is a top priority.

Jewish community centers and other organizations in 43 states and overseas have received 140 threats since January 3, FBI Special Agent in Charge Rick Thornton said, including the Sabes JCC in St. Louis Park and the St. Paul JCC.

"We consider this a national investigation," Thornton said Wednesday. "From an FBI standpoint, we are utilizing resources all across the FBI, at the field office level as well as our headquarters components, the criminal investigative division, the cyber division."

The caller appears to be the same person and uses a voice-altering device, Thornton said.

Earlier this month, authorities charged former St. Louis journalist Juan Thompson with threatening at least eight Jewish institutions.

However, Thornton said Thompson is not suspected in the majority of the incidents.