Dutchess teen accused of reporting false threats at Poughkeepsie Galleria

Joseph Portanova, of the Town of Wappinger, was charged with falsely reporting an incident.

News 12 Staff

Oct 13, 2023, 2:33 AM

Updated 440 days ago

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An 18-year-old from Dutchess County was arrested for allegedly posting on social media about active shooter and bomb threat incidents at the Poughkeepsie Galleria over the summer.
Joseph Portanova, of the Town of Wappinger, was charged with falsely reporting an incident.
The posts on July 24 and 28 prompted police to respond to the Galleria.
Investigations determined there was no danger to the public and the posts were false.
Police said further investigation developed that Portanova intentionally circulated the statements in an attempt to create public alarm.