Pennsylvania City Hall Employee Suspected of Putting Noose on Own Desk in Suspected Fake Hate Crime

Following a lengthy investigation, a city employee in Pennsylvania has been taken into custody for allegedly falsely claiming to have discovered a noose on her desk. 

In a press conference held on Monday, the Allentown Police Department revealed the arrest of LaTarsha Brown, a city worker who asserted on Jan. 10 that she found a noose on her desk upon arriving at City Hall for her shift. 

A criminal investigation was initiated following Brown’s report to identify the person responsible for placing the noose on her desk. 

Throughout the inquiry, authorities stated that they scrutinized video footage and access control records of the building to pinpoint the city staff members present on the third floor of City Hall from the time Brown departed work on the evening of Jan. 9 until she came back on the morning of Jan. 10. 

Allentown, Pa., as seen from the Tilghman Street Bridge (Charles Creitz/Fox News Digital)

Roca added that Brown’s motive for her actions could not be discussed. 

Brown is scheduled for a preliminary court hearing on April 22.

Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk told Fox News Digital that this was a “serious incident” and that they are working closely with law enforcement. 

“This was a serious incident that deeply impacts employees who are dedicated to serving Allentown, and we’re praying for peace for all affected,” Tuerk’s office shared in a statement. 

“We’re grateful for the work of Allentown PD, Pennsylvania State Police, and the FBI for their thorough investigation. We remain committed to a safe, welcoming workplace in our city.”

Brown’s case mimics the case of actor Jussie Smollett, who reported to Chicago police that he was the victim of a racist and homophobic attack by two men wearing ski masks in January 2019.

The “Empire” actor was originally convicted of orchestrating the hate crime, but after filing a petition, Smollett had his charges overturned by the Illinois Supreme Court in November 2024 as a judge ruled he should not have been charged a second time due to a deal he reached with prosecutors and that it violated his rights. 

Fox News Digital’s Lauryn Overhultz contributed to this report. 

Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected]