Oskaloosa Police Determine Substance at Midwest One Motor Bank Was a Hoax; No Hazard to Public

An Oskaloosa Police Department Press Release

Oskaloosa, Iowa — This morning, the Oskaloosa Police Department and regional partners responded to a report of a suspicious substance at the Midwest One Motor Bank located at 222 1st Ave E. Out of an abundance of caution, the area was secured, and a hazardous-materials response was requested.

The involved employee was interviewed by investigators shortly after the incident occurred. During the investigation, the employee who initially raised the alarm admitted to fabricating the presence of a hazardous substance. Field-test assessments later confirmed there was no hazardous material present and no risk to the public or bank staff.

Potential criminal charges were referred to the Mahaska County Attorney’s Office for review. Angela Nicole Veary (26), of Oskaloosa, was later charged with making a false report to a public entity.

The Oskaloosa Police Department thanks the responding partners for their rapid and professional assistance, including the Oskaloosa Fire Department, Mahaska County Emergency Management, the Iowa State Patrol, Mahaska Health, the 71st Civil Support Team, Mahaska County 911 Communications, as well as Midwest One staff, for their cooperation.

There is no ongoing threat related to this incident. Normal operations at the location may resume at the discretion of the business.