Florida Senator Rick Scott reported that his home in Naples was the target of an attempted swatting incident on Thanksgiving Day, according to local police and Scott’s spokesperson. Authorities responded to a false emergency call that aimed to provoke a heavy law enforcement presence at the property.
Naples police confirmed they were dispatched to Scott’s residence but quickly determined that the emergency report was unfounded. Officers ensured the safety of everyone on-site and stated that the senator and his family were not in danger. The department has since launched an investigation into the source of the call.
Scott condemned the act, calling it an irresponsible and dangerous attempt to intimidate public officials.
“This kind of behavior is unacceptable and could put lives at risk,” Scott said in a social media post.
Swatting, a criminal tactic where false emergency reports are made to deploy police to someone’s address, has been an increasing concern in the U.S., especially targeting public figures and online personalities. Law enforcement officials continue to treat these cases as serious criminal offenses.
Author’s summary: Police investigated a false emergency call at Senator Rick Scott’s home in Naples on Thanksgiving, confirming the event as an attempted swatting with no injuries or threat to safety.