BOULDER, Colo. -- Security at several Boulder County high schools was increased Friday after possible threats of gang-related violence.

High schools in the St. Vrain Valley School District were the focus, according to the Boulder Daily Camera. The newspaper reported that Niwot, Longmont and Skyline were getting additional police protection.

Rumors of threats that might have started on MySpace.com were enough to cause some parents of students keep them out of school. The rumors were discussed at Thursday night's community meeting on gang violence in Longmont.

"The rumors are feeding on themselves, and parents are calling in," said Boulder County Sheriff Joe Pelle. "This is growing a life of its own."