Multiple police officers falsely informed dispatchers that an infant had been hurled from a vehicle window, according to a report.

The disturbing allegations formed part of a warped April Fools’ joke, which the document states resulted in a chase across city streets until one officer apparently admitted the truth to control. A dispatcher can be heard on radio recordings saying: “Not funny” after discovering the reports were fabricated.

However, Oklahoma City Police Department has suspended several officers believed to have participated in the incident. While the exact number hasn’t been disclosed, the investigation into their conduct remains ongoing.

Oklahoma City Police Captain Valerie Littlejohn said: “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.”

Dramatic radio recordings captured the moment panicked dispatchers responded to the bogus claims, which commenced when an officer reported that police were engaged in a pursuit around 9.30pm on 1 April in Oklahoma City.

“Delta 13 just advised that they threw a baby out the window at 36th and Robinson,” a dispatcher says, relaying the officer’s report. An Oklahoma Highway Patrol dispatcher then intervenes, asking: “Can we see if they need our assistance?”

The dispatcher states: “The police officer that’s in pursuit does not have a radio. He’s just messaging his location.” Following a response from several officers, a dispatcher was subsequently heard announcing: “It was an April Fools’ prank.”

Under Oklahoma law, it is a misdemeanour offence to report “knowingly false information which could result in the dispatch of emergency services from any public agency.” Those found guilty face a fine of up to $500 (£375) alongside an assessment covering any costs incurred by dispatching emergency personnel.

Speaking to local news outlet KFOR, solicitor Noble McIntyre noted that penalties for misusing 911 in Oklahoma can also extend to up to 90 days behind bars. He further stated: “But it’s bigger than that. It’s the trust in the department.”

Oklahoma City Police Department employs more than 1,300 officers and staff, making it one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the state, with origins dating back to the 1880s.

The force patrols an area spanning 621.2 square miles, serving a population of over 712,000 residents.