The Moberly Police Department responded to a reported threat against the Moberly Public School District at around 1 p.m. Thursday.

Officers immediately secured district buildings, finding no credible threat and cleared all the district’s facilities. At no time was there an indication of an active threat to students or staff.

The Moberly Police Department says this incident appears to be a case of “swatting,” which is the act of making a false report—often involving serious threats such as weapons or explosives—with the intent of prompting a large emergency law enforcement response. These calls are typically anonymous.

The department says swatting is not a harmless prank, as it places first responders and the public at unnecessary risk, and it diverts emergency personnel away from real emergencies where help may be urgently needed. These incidents can result in significant criminal charges for those responsible.

The Moberly Police Department takes all threats seriously and is working with school officials and partner agencies to investigate this incident.