FBI, Mason City police, and state authorities raid Mason City house after teen drops dire threats

MASON CITY – A possibly-boozy Mason City teen allegedly dropped dire threats potentially involving a gun, and the digital posts were taken so seriously that a juvenile’s lair was raided by local, state and federal law enforcement teams, including a school safety agency, leading to the short-circuiting of any sinister plan and the continued tranquility of the community.

On November 21, 2025, the Mason City police department was notified by an external source about concerns regarding online speech and posts by a Mason City resident. The posts appeared to cross the line between free speech and criminal activity (threats to harm others with firearms), law enforcement explained to NIT. This communication had been ongoing since at least October 5, 2025. MCPD investigators began their investigation, leading to a search warrant being requested in court. The search warrant was approved by a judge.

On November 23, 2025, the North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force Special Operations Group (S.O.G.) served this search warrant at 1527 S. Wilson Avenue in Mason City. Records show the deed to the house is owned by Constance J. Johnson.

A nearby resident that observed the house raid told NIT after the incident, “I … didn’t think takin pics or looking out the windows would be a good idea. Wondering what the reason except to remove many weapons & most likely drugs & paraphernalia.

“The swat team were parked (nearby). They went across (a) yard … they were all dressed in full riot gear with weapons drawn. Mason City Police were also on scene. Thanks for any info you can provide. I think they were here around 11 AM or noon. Not really sure what time they all were gone.”

As a result of the house raid and search, a Mason City police spokesman told NIT, “drug paraphernalia and alcohol was found in a 16-year-old’s room. Firearms and ammunition were found elsewhere in the home and seized. Other adults live in this home as well. The adults were present when the warrant was served. The investigation is ongoing. This matter has been referred to juvenile court services ref the 16-year-old.”

Police were unable to confirm whether the teen was cited and released or cuffed and hauled to Eldora.

“I’m not sure I can confirm that ‘officially,'” NIT was told, since the perp is a “child” reporting on their alleged crime can be touchy. “All I can say comfortably for right now is that child was referred to juvenile court services.”

The exact charge leveled on the suspect could also not be released.

The Mason City police were assisted by the Iowa D.C.I., Iowa Governor’s School Safety Bureau, F.B.I., and North Central Iowa Narcotics Task Force S.O.G.

(TOP PHOTO of 1527 S. Wilson Avenue in Mason City via Google Maps.)