Rising Swatting Incidents Target Conservative Influencers and Their Families

NEW YORK, March 20, 2025 — A string of alarming swatting incidents targeting conservative influencers has prompted federal investigations as victims recount terrifying encounters with armed police. Larry Taunton, an influencer from Alabama, experienced a close call at 1 a.m. Sunday when his dog alerted him to a mysterious figure trying to enter his home.

“His ears were up and moving like satellite dishes,” Taunton said, describing his dog’s behavior during the incident. Grabbing his firearm, he cautiously approached the kitchen only to find three police officers with their weapons drawn at his door, responding to a false emergency call claiming he was in distress.

Police had received a report alleging that three men were inside Taunton’s home, executing individuals. Taunton, who has a significant following on X with over 177,000 followers, quickly realized he had been swatted, a dangerous crime that involves falsely alerting authorities to a fake emergency in order to provoke a police response.

In the last two weeks, numerous conservative influencers, many of whom have interacted with prominent figures like Elon Musk, have reported similar swatting incidents. According to federal officials, this wave of targeted harassment follows a surge in vandalism against Tesla dealerships and owners linked to Musk.

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security have launched investigations into the recent spike in swatting occurrences. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem issued a statement on X, asserting, “We will not sit idly by as conservative media and their families are being targeted by false swatting.” She vowed to use technology to trace the phone numbers used in these crimes.

FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating, “Weaponizing law enforcement against ANY American is morally reprehensible and endangers lives, including those of our officers.” This sentiment echoes the broader concern among many that swatting incidents may escalate into tragic confrontations.

In a separate incident in North Carolina, Erin Derham was similarly alarmed when loud banging on her door and sirens filled her home at 1:30 a.m. Being aware of other influencers’ swatting incidents, she had warned her local police department of the potential for danger. However, the reality struck her hard when she was greeted by armed officers. An unidentified caller had impersonated her husband, claiming that Derham was dead and he had been shot.

“I could hear loud sirens blaring down the street,” Derham recounted. “I could tell they were very, very concerned.” Despite her attempts to reassure the responding officers, her fear peaked when she learned of the details of the fabricated call.

Swatting, categorized as a severe crime at both federal and state levels, has resulted in deadly outcomes in the past. Notably, in 2017, a man was shot by police during a swatting-call response, highlighting the grave risks involved. Additionally, a Tennessee man died from a heart attack as officers responded to a swatting call.

The recent incidents involving conservative figures have drawn bipartisan concern. Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) is spearheading an investigation into the politically motivated swatting attacks. Higgins emphasized the significant threat posed by these incidents, calling them a form of political violence that could have dire consequences.

“The Subcommittee requests information from the DOJ and FBI on the steps being taken to investigate these incidents,” Higgins stated in a communication detailing the urgent need for accountability.

In response to this rising trend, bipartisan legislation has been introduced to increase penalties for those found guilty of swatting calls, with implications for serious injury or death resulting from false reports. Supporters of the legislation describe swatting as a dangerous form of political terrorism that destroys lives and must be curtailed.

Although swatting instills fear, many affected influencers remain steadfast in their convictions. Van Swol, whose family was impacted by a swatting incident, remarked, “If the goal is to frighten people into silence, that won’t work.” Like many others targeted, he feels renewed motivation to speak out on political issues despite the threats.

As investigations continue and accountability remains a pressing concern, victims of these swatting incidents hope for a swift resolution and protection from further harassment.