The City of Moberly was one of multiple locations across the nation affected by a series of false emergency reports, commonly known as “swatting”, on August 1.

Similar fake calls targeted public buildings and private residences, including a government facility in Randolph County and a random residential address within Moberly.

Upon receiving the reports, Moberly Police, along with Randolph County Sheriff’s’ Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol, acted swiftly to ensure the safety of the public. The incident was quickly determined to be unfounded, and there is no active threat to the community at this time.

The City is aware that other locations in Missouri and across the United States received similar false reports today. The Department of Homeland Security has been in contact with City officials and is coordinating with local and state agencies in response to this event.

Swatting is a dangerous act in which false information is provided to emergency services to provoke a large law enforcement response. These hoaxes strain local resources and put the public at unnecessary risk. The City of Moberly says it is taking every threat seriously, and is grateful to its dispatchers, officers, and partner agencies for their quick response. Thankfully, this was determined to be a hoax, but it serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible reporting and public vigilance.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Moberly Police Department at 660-263-0346 or other local law enforcement agencies.