Cambria Times

A group of Republican lawmakers in Pennsylvania is set to introduce a series of bills aimed at addressing the issue of "swatting." This dangerous act involves making false emergency calls that prompt a significant police response, often involving SWAT teams. The lawmakers aim to provide law enforcement with more tools to prosecute individuals involved in such hoaxes.

The initiative comes after an increase in swatting incidents, including a recent case at a York County Walmart where a caller falsely reported shootings and hostage situations. Law enforcement must treat these calls seriously, leading to substantial police deployments and potential risks.

Representative Ryan Mackenzie plans to propose legislation that would classify swatting as a felony if it results in bodily harm during the response. "The very nature of these swatting incidents creates the high risk that violence will occur and someone answering the emergency call may get hurt," Mackenzie stated. He emphasized that his bill aims to deter this harmful behavior through significant criminal penalties.

Representative Craig Williams' proposal would allow victims of swatting to sue perpetrators for damages caused by false reports. "Swatting inflicts serious damage on individuals and property," Williams noted, advocating for victim restitution directly from those responsible.

To address the financial burden on law enforcement, Representative Dawn Keefer intends to introduce legislation requiring offenders to cover costs incurred by state or municipal responses. These expenses include responder wages, prosecution costs, and equipment used during the incident. Keefer remarked, "The blue line is already stretched thin enough and we cannot afford to have police officers chasing phantom calls."

Lastly, Representative Jim Rigby seeks civil immunity for officers responding under genuine belief of imminent danger due to swatting calls. Reflecting on his experience as a former police chief, Rigby said: “These ‘swatters’ are toying with officers’ passion... potentially putting lives at risk.”