A man was taken into custody outside the Lakeville mosque on Friday after claiming he was a federal agent working a case.
Lakeville police said that just before 12 p.m. Friday, officers responded to Lakeville Masjid for reports of a man who was agitated and asking strange questions, according to a 911 caller.
Police questioned the man, who said that he was a military officer and federal agent, and was investigating some child trafficking-related cases.
He was not able to provide any proof or documentation to support his statements, the police department noted.
The man was taken into custody, and a pocketknife, box cutter and suspected illicit narcotics were found in his pockets. Lakeville authorities added that there were no reports that the sharp objects were displayed during the incident, and no reports that he ever entered the building.
Police said the man, who lives in the area, is known to them from previous mental health-related contacts. Lakeville officials stated there is no information suggesting the man targeted the mosque for religious purposes.
He was brought to Dakota County Jail and held on charges related to Friday’s incident.
Following the man’s arrest, residents and faith leaders in Lakeville held a press conference.
