FBI Investigates Racist Texts Sent to People Across the Country; Stoughton students reported receiving them

The FBI said Thursday that authorities are investigating after a series of “offensive and racist text messages” were sent to people across the country, including in Stoughton, where several local high school students of color received a message informing them they were “selected to pick cotton.”

“The FBI is aware of the offensive and racist text messages being sent to individuals across the country and is in contact with the Department of Justice and other federal authorities regarding this matter,” the agency said in a statement. “As always, we encourage the public to report threats of physical violence to local law enforcement authorities.”

The agency did not specify any recipients, but the announcement closely echoed Thursday’s reports from Stoughton, where the racist text, sent from an unknown number, said the students had been “selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation,” according to a statement from Stoughton Public Schools.

“We understand that receiving a message like this is deeply disturbing and can cause emotional distress and anxiety, especially for our students and staff of color,” the statement said. “In no uncertain terms, these types of messages are acceptable. Stoughton Public Schools stands against any form of racism, discrimination or hatred.”

Similar mass messages were reportedly sent to students across the country on the same day, according to the statement from school officials.

The text prompted the school to take action and show its support for students, officials said.

Students and staff who have received the text message or similar messages are asked to report it to the school administration, the statement said. Counselors were also available all day Friday for anyone affected, officials said.

The incident remains under investigation and has been referred to Stoughton police, the statement said.

A request for further comment was sent to an FBI spokesperson Friday morning.

This report uses material from previous Globe stories. This breaking news story will be updated as more information is released.

Travis Andersen can be reached at [email protected].