JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – The Cole County Prosecutor’s Office said that no charges will be filed against State Representative Tricia Byrnes for an incident that happened at the Missouri State Capitol on Feb. 20.

On Feb. 20, officials were alerted to the Capitol for what appeared as a “false suicide threat,” according to the office.

Byrnes previously highlighted issues with 988 and its texting services. She alleged that the texting services was with a bot, rather than a real person.

“After reviewing new information in the investigation, it appears that Representative Byrnes was
acting under the reasonable belief that she was engaged in a legitimate test of the 988 system,” said Prosecuting Attorney Locke Thompson. “I appreciate the representative’s cooperation in the investigation as well as her condemnation of the misuse of emergency hotlines. I would like to thank the Missouri Capitol Police and MSHP’s Division of Drug and Crime Control for conducting a thorough investigation into the matter and reiterate than any intentional misuse of an emergency line will be fully investigated and prosecuted.”

With the conclusion of the investigation, Byrnes expressed gratitude for the Prosecutor’s Office.

“Ensuring compassionate and timely support for individuals in crisis is a moral imperative. House Bill 1148 strengthens the 988 Lifeline, ensuring no call for help goes unanswered, with immediate human intervention for those in acute crisis,” Byrnes said. “I would also like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the intentional misuse of a hotline or emergency line should never be done under any circumstance. I have tremendous respect for our law enforcement and first responders, and I want to make clear that I am appreciative and supportive of those who run toward unknown danger every day to keep us safe, including those who did so on February 20th.”

Byrnes further noted that she is committed to improving 988 Lifeline. And to combat the issues with 988’s automated texting services, she introduced HB 1148. The bill’s purpose requires counselors to determine if an individual needs immediate medical intervention or emotional support.

The Cole County Prosecutor’s Office announced that it will have no further comment at this time