Brian Zaranko is a Brooklyn parent who is concerned about the safety of his 12-year-old daughter, after he said she was threatened at the St. Elias Festival, and on Instagram over the Labor Day weekend.
Zaranko told News 5 the threats of physical harm came from a dozen Brooklyn Middle School students, who said they would "jump" his daughter at the school.
Zaranko said the threats started at the festival, and then continued a few hours later in a Instagram live post, which he recorded, and turned over the school board and the Brooklyn Superintendent.
"The girl stated she was going to jump her at school, she didn't care if she got suspended," said Zaranko.
"It wasn't just a simple video of, oh I hate you, better not run into me. It was, oh no, I'm coming for you, I'm coming after you."
Zaranko said he contacted Brooklyn School Superintendent Dr. Mark Gleichauf, who responded quickly, launching a full investigation.
Dr. Gleichauf issued the following statement:
"Our schools do take incidents like these seriously. Hence, the administrators began the investigative process of this incident today.
That investigation includes speaking with students, parents and local law enforcement when necessary.
The Brooklyn City Schools have instituted this past year safety and bullying phone hotline and online reporting systems so that students, parents, staff members and community can report quickly and directly incidents they deem that could put students and staff at danger."
Zaranko said it's critical parents stay involved with their children's social media accounts.
"Parents should definitely monitor their kid social media networks," said Zaranko.
"Find out what apps they're using, who their friends are, who they're talking to on-line. Like I said, I've learned a valuable lesson as well."
