FBI Takes New Measures Against Growing Celebrity Swatting Threat

The FBI’s intensified investigation into swatting targeting public figures reveals the lethal stakes of these malicious pranks.

Key Takeaways

The FBI is investigating a rise in swatting incidents targeting high-profile conservative media figures.
Swatting involves falsely reporting an innocent person to law enforcement, leading to police being dispatched to their home.
Swatting has affected conservative figures like Gunther Eagleman, Joe Pagliarulo, and Chase Geiser.
FBI Director Kash Patel underscores swatting’s threat to public safety, not political motivation.
At least 10 swatting incidents were reported on a single Thursday.

Swatting: A Dangerous Trend

Swatting involves deceiving authorities into dispatching emergency services to an unsuspecting person’s home by falsely reporting a serious incident. This can lead to police, including heavily armed units, arriving at a target’s doorstep, potentially inciting violent confrontations. The FBI, led by Director Kash Patel, has acknowledged the alarming surge in such incidents targeting conservative media figures. This calculated misuse of law enforcement resources is seen as a modern, high-tech form of harassment and domestic terrorism.

“I want to address the alarming rise in ‘swatting’ incidents targeting media figures. The FBI is aware of this dangerous trend, and my team and I are already taking action to investigate and hold those responsible accountable,” said Director Patel.

The impact on victims is severe, with individuals like InfoWars’ Chase Geiser experiencing two swatting incidents within 12 hours. Geiser described the terror of being handcuffed on the street as police investigated a fictitious threat. Similarly, Gunther Eagleman faced a fake hostage situation, expressing anger and fear while highlighting the importance of close relations with law enforcement.

I want to address the alarming rise in ‘Swatting’ incidents targeting media figures. The FBI is aware of this dangerous trend, and my team and I are already taking action to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.

This isn’t about politics—weaponizing law enforcement…

— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 14, 2025

Actions Taken by the FBI

FBI Director Kash Patel is at the forefront of efforts to combat swatting. He is coordinating with local law enforcement to address these menacing crimes. Patel emphasizes the need for accountability for those responsible, stressing that weaponizing law enforcement is morally reprehensible and endangers not just the targets, but also the officers and communities involved. The FBI’s commitment to tackling these incidents underscores the seriousness with which they are viewed at the federal level.

Despite the potential dangers, no arrests have been made, leaving victims and law enforcement frustrated. With no legal consequences for perpetrators yet, the fear and uncertainty continue to loom over many public figures. The FBI pledges further updates, while public figures enhance their security and communication with law enforcement to mitigate risks.

#Crime
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As reported by NBC News, a recent spate of swatting incidents has targeted high-profile figures, including politicians and public figures, raising concerns about personal safety and the misuse of emergency services.

Two family members of conservative commentator Nick…

— supermarioai_v2 (@supermarioai_v2) March 14, 2025

A Call for Legislative Action

The swatting threat has sparked calls for legislative responses, with Republican Senator Mike Lee suggesting swatting be prosecuted as attempted murder. Such a reclassification would significantly raise the stakes for perpetrators by aligning the legal consequences with the potential outcomes—serious injury or death. Lawmakers and enforcement agencies appear unified in recognizing the threat posed by swatting, aiming to prevent its escalation and protect citizens.

The proactive measures by the FBI and the clamor for stricter penalties reflect a serious acknowledgment that swatting is not a prank, but a tactic that imperils life and liberty. Such dedication is pivotal in reinforcing the safety and security of individuals, maintaining order, and ensuring the upholding of justice.