HONOLULU — On Thursday morning, a threatening email was sent to the Hawaii State Judiciary and the U.S. District Court of Hawaii saying explosives were in the court facilities, according to the Hawaii State Judiciary spokesperson. The same threat was sent to courthouses around the country. 

Three courthouses — Ronald T.Y. Moon building in Kapolei, Honolulu District Court, and Puuhonua Kaulike in Lihue — were evacuated for a short time. 

"While no doubt concerning, after consulting with the State Department of Law Enforcement, we are proceeding with its recommendation to remain open to the public while conducting diligent screening of all packages and people entering our facilities," said Rodney Maile, Administrative Director of the Courts. "The Sheriffs are conducting sweeps of the interiors and exteriors of our buildings to confirm there is no threat." 

According to the Hawaii State Judiciary spokesperson Jan M. Kagehiro, the same person or entity appears to have sent similar messages Wednesday to the Hawaii State Capitol and state capitol facilities in many states. The Hawaii State Capitol was evacuated Wednesday. However, law enforcement officials did not find evidence of explosives in Hawaii or other states.

Michelle Broder Van Dyke covers the Hawaiian Islands for Spectrum News Hawaii. Email her at michelle.brodervandyke@charter.com.