Mt. Shasta Police Chief Robert Gibson denied internet speculation about a proposed data center coming to Mt. Shasta, stating the rumors are inaccurate. The property in question is owned by the county and there is zero interest to move forward with the project. Several individuals online responded to the rumor by making threats of violence against council members, city staff, and their families through social media, text messages, and phone calls.

Gibson said people have the right to disagree, speak out, and make their voices heard, but that right does not extend to threats of violence.