Legislation to Make Swatting a Public Official or Police Officer a Felony Unanimously Passes Minnesota House

(KNSI) — A piece of legislation that would stiffen the penalties for swatting calls at the homes of certain individuals unanimously passed the Minnesota House.

Swatting is when a fake 911 call is placed reporting a violent situation such as a domestic dispute, shooting or hostage situation happening at someone’s home. They are extremely dangerous and designed to create a large law enforcement response. In the past, there have been examples across the country where people inside mistake officers for burglars attempting a home invasion. On the flip side, deputies or troopers arrive expecting an active threat, putting people inside at risk.

Right now, swatting is a gross misdemeanor, but House Minority Leader Representative Lisa Demuth (R-Cold Spring) wants to make it a felony when a swatting call sends first responders to the home of an elected official, judge, prosecuting attorney, an employee of a correctional facility or a peace officer. Minnesota’s Sixth District Congressman Tom Emmer was a victim of swatting in January.

Following a 127-0 vote, it now goes to the Senate.

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