Threat of Explosion Shakes Lantana: Woman Arrested Before July 4th!

Lantana, Florida, United States - The small town of Lantana, Florida, found itself in a turmoil over the weekend after a bomb threat incident involving a local woman. On Friday, June 30, 2025, authorities arrested 48-year-old Katherine Nell Ratcliff following a confrontation at the Development Services building. Ratcliff allegedly threatened to blow up the building, stating she would „blow the Developmental Services Building on the 4th of July“ in “a big show.” The threat emerged during a discussion concerning her grievances with a city employee, leading to a swift response from law enforcement.

Upon hearing the threat, the employee promptly reported it to the authorities. Police quickly located Ratcliff at her residence on W. Palm Street, where a show-up identification was conducted. The employee confirmed Ratcliff’s identity, and she was apprehended without any incident. Although initially hesitant to cooperate during police questioning, Ratcliff later denied making any threats. Fortunately, no explosive materials were discovered at her home, and thankfully, no injuries occurred during the incident. Nonetheless, police established probable cause for her arrest on charges of making false bomb threats—a serious felony offense, as reported by CBS 12.

Past Legal Troubles

This incident is not Ratcliff’s first brush with the law. According to public records from Palm Beach Busts, she has faced multiple charges since 2020, including resisting an officer with violence, disorderly intoxication, and battery on a law enforcement officer. These previous offenses paint a picture of a woman whose interactions with the police have not always been peaceful. The repeat nature of her run-ins with the law raises concerns for community safety and the efficacy of preventive measures.

The Bigger Picture

Bomb threats, while often considered hoaxes, create a ripple effect of fear and disruption. Statistics from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) shed light on this pressing issue. In 2016 alone, there were 1,536 reported bomb threat incidents across the United States. The rate of such threats has fluctuated over the years, with a notable 33% increase in threats to schools since 2014, while threats to residences have seen a decline of 35% in the same period. Interestingly, threats to businesses also reflect a significant number, with 254 incidents reported in that year, as stated in the ATF’s findings at ATF.

This recent event in Lantana serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and prompt reporting when threats are made. Authorities encourage citizens to take such matters seriously, as false bomb threats significantly burden law enforcement resources and community morale. As we move through the summer months filled with celebrations, including the upcoming 4th of July festivities, let’s hope for safety and peace in our towns.