(TheProudRepublic.com) – After even the White House became the victim of a dangerous “swatting” attack, a high-profile Republican politician has also fallen prey to the ill-minded scheme, which features fake emergency calls either as potentially deadly pranks or to exert pressure on specific famous individuals.
The latest public figure targeted by “swatting” is US Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN), the Majority Whip of the US House of Representatives.
Emmer experienced the distressing incident over the weekend when his residence was subjected to the dangerous prank.
The “swatting” attack was revealed by the congressman himself in two posts on X, The Hill reports
“Tonight my family and I were the target of a ‘swatting’ incident involving a 911 prank call that wrongly diverted a police presence to my home,” the Minnesota Republican wrote.
Emmer further highlighted the gravity of this issue.
“Sadly, this illegal and dangerous scheme is being used nationwide to target elected officials,” he declared.
He followed up with a second post on the matter without offering additional details.
“Thankfully, no one was home or injured. I condemn this illegal abuse of police resources. I want to thank the Wright County Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism and support. I will have no additional comment on this matter,” the congressman concluded.
The report points out that this malicious act, where fictitious emergency calls are made to dispatch police, particularly SWAT teams, to an unsuspecting person’s home, has recently been a concern among various Congress members.
The tactic is not only deceitful but also poses a significant threat to the safety of its targets, The Hill notes.
In a similar vein, presidential candidate Nikki Haley disclosed on Saturday that her residence was also trapped by such a deceptive call last month.
Other GOP US Reps. – Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) and Brandon Williams (R-NY) have likewise been entangled in these troubling events.
Fortunately, there have been no injuries resulting from these swatting incidents.
In response to the growing prevalence of swatting, Senators Rick Scott (R-FL) and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) have recently proposed legislation to intensify the legal repercussions for those who engage in swatting.
“The bill would ensure the ‘cowards’ behind these swatting calls’ face serious consequences,’” said Scott, who was also targeted by “swatting” last month.
