This is why false police reports are generally forbidden and can put you, a reporter, in jail.
You shouting out a crazy theory on leukemia will not compel anyone to listen at the hospital. Police are obligated to act out on all reports.
So while they do bear the least responsibility, I disagree it's by a wide margin.
The police are not obligated to act out on all reports and they exercise this executive discretion all the time. In this case the police choose to arrest and the DA choose to file charges. Nothing obligates the law enforcement professionals to behave this way — not even a sense of PR as this only stains their image. This train could've been stopped by professionals at every step of the way but instead they choose to power through. The mother pled guilty.
This is not swatting. In the eyes of law enforcement, the neighbor did not engage in false reporting.
If you are not used to having police at your door, the mere event can be intimidating.
Not in USA. Supreme Court said cops have no duty to protect any individual. Supposedly cops provide general protection, or something.
USSC said cops don't have to do anything.
Castle Rock v. Gonzales, 545 U.S. 748 (2005)