TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — A 23-year-old Thompsonville man appeared in Grand Traverse County court Thursday and entered a not guilty plea to a felony charge related to alleged threats against Munson Medical Center.
The defendant, Austin Moore, was arraigned Jan. 8 in front of a magistrate after being charged with making a threat of terrorism connected to the hospital following an incident earlier this week. Prosecutors allege Moore made statements that prompted safety concerns and a lockdown at the medical center on Jan. 5. 2026
Moore, who appeared in court with defense attorney Janette Mistele, waived a formal reading of the felony complaint before entering his plea of not guilty. He also requested a court-appointed attorney, citing a lack of income, stable housing, and contact information.
During the brief hearing, Moore told the court that he has been experiencing homelessness and is currently without a consistent phone number or address. His attorney confirmed that he has sought assistance from Northern Lakes Community Mental Health and Safe Harbor, a local shelter and service organization.
Magistrate Tammi Rogers set Moore’s bond at $50,000, or an equivalent cash surety. The bond comes with several conditions, including that Moore:
- Stay away from Munson Medical Center, except in verified emergencies.
- Have no contact with any hospital employees.
- Refrain from possessing any weapons.
- Avoid threatening, intimidating or harassing behavior toward others.
- Comply with all existing mental health treatment orders and plans.
Moore is permitted to visit the hospital only in the event of a true emergency, under strict oversight.
A probable cause conference is scheduled for Jan. 21, followed by a preliminary examination set for 11 a.m. on Jan. 27 before Judge Michael Stepka.
As the case progresses, authorities continue to stress that charges are allegations only, and Moore is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
