Patrol supervisors with the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office confirm that Internet rumors and cell phone text messages about alleged gang assaults at local area stores are false.

Sheriff’s deputies report an increasing number of calls being received through the county’s 911 dispatch system from people worried about stories they’ve heard that there will be “gang initiations” at local Wal-Mart stores where unsuspecting store patrons will be targeted.

These reports have come and gone over Internet blog sites for the past several years. Their veracity has never been proven and the rumors are deemed not credible.

Those who contact 911 with requests for law enforcement contact about these rumors will be advised the rumors are considered false and should not be taken as a credible threat.

Citizens who observe criminal activity in progress should not refrain from requesting law enforcement assistance via 911.