Several police officers falsely reported to dispatchers that a baby had been thrown from a car window, according to a recent report. The disturbing incident was part of an ill-conceived April Fools’ prank that led to a chase through city streets until one officer admitted to the hoax. The Oklahoma City Police Department has placed a group of officers suspected of involvement on leave while an investigation is ongoing.
Captain Valerie Littlejohn of the Oklahoma City Police stated, “We are aware of a pursuit involving some of our officers based on serious claims that were later found to be false. We are taking this matter seriously and are dedicated to conducting a thorough review.”
Radio recordings captured the tense moments as dispatchers reacted to the false reports, initially triggered by an officer claiming a pursuit around 9:30 pm on April 1 in Oklahoma City. The dispatcher relayed the officer’s report of a baby being thrown out at a specific location, prompting concern and response from multiple units before the prank was revealed.
Under Oklahoma law, knowingly providing false information that could lead to emergency services being dispatched is considered a misdemeanor offense. Penalties include a fine of up to $500 (£375) and reimbursement for any costs associated with the emergency response.
In an interview with local news outlet KFOR, attorney Noble McIntyre explained that punishment for misusing the 911 system in Oklahoma may include up to 90 days in prison, emphasizing the impact on trust within the police department.
The Oklahoma City Police Department, one of the state’s oldest law enforcement agencies dating back to the 1880s, employs over 1,300 personnel and covers 621.2 square miles serving a population of more than 712,000 residents.
