Oklahoma City Police Officers Suspended Over April Fools' Day 911 Hoax
Several Oklahoma City police officers have been placed on administrative leave following a false 911 call made on April Fools' Day, which reported that someone had thrown a baby from a moving vehicle. The incident, which triggered a police pursuit before being revealed as a hoax, has led to an ongoing internal investigation by the Oklahoma City Police Department.
Internal Investigation Underway
Oklahoma City Police Capt. Valerie Littlejohn confirmed on Monday that an internal investigation is in progress. However, she declined to specify the number of officers placed on administrative leave or provide detailed accusations. In a statement, Littlejohn emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "We are aware of a reported pursuit involving some of our officers that included serious claims, which has since been determined to be false. We take this situation seriously and are committed to ensuring a thorough review is conducted."
Audio Evidence Reveals Hoax
The investigation was prompted by police radio audio from the night of April 1, which was reported by Oklahoma City television station KFOR and other media outlets. In the audio, a dispatcher can be heard saying, "The city just advised that the suspect threw a baby out the window." Another dispatcher added, "The police officer that's in pursuit does not have a radio. He's just messaging his location." After multiple officers responded to the false report, a dispatcher later announced, "It was an April Fools' prank," to which another responded, "Not funny."
Legal Consequences and Union Response
Under Oklahoma law, it is a misdemeanor crime to knowingly report false information that could result in the dispatch of emergency services from any public agency. Punishment includes a fine of up to $500 and an assessment for any costs associated with dispatching emergency personnel. A message left on Monday with the president of the Oklahoma City police union seeking comment on the incident was not immediately returned, leaving the officers' perspectives unclear.
The Oklahoma City Police Department continues to review the matter, highlighting the potential dangers and resource waste caused by such pranks. This incident underscores the importance of verifying emergency calls and the serious repercussions of false reporting.
