European Duo Indicted for Massive Swatting Spree Targeting U.S. Officials and Former President
August 28, 2024Two European men, Thomasz Szabo, 26, from Romania, and Nemanja Radovanovic, 21, from Serbia, have been indicted for a series of 'swatting' incidents targeting over 100 individuals, including high-ranking U.S. officials and a former president.
The federal indictment alleges that the duo made bogus emergency calls designed to provoke aggressive police responses, with their activities spanning from December 2020 to January 2024.
Victims of their alleged swatting campaign included members of Congress, federal law enforcement officials, and private citizens, highlighting the broad scope of their threats.
Matthew Graves, U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, condemned swatting as a serious crime that endangers lives and wastes police resources, pledging to hold the perpetrators accountable.
Swatting involves making false reports of serious crimes, such as murders or hostage situations, to provoke rapid and often violent responses from law enforcement.
The swatting incidents included threats of mass shootings at New York City synagogues and bomb threats at the U.S. Capitol and a university.
Szabo reportedly suggested targeting victims from both U.S. political parties, indicating a strategy to create chaos across political lines.
The Justice Department's investigation revealed that Szabo and Radovanovic reported nearly 120 fake emergencies to U.S. crisis intervention hotlines and agencies.
The suspects are also accused of making bomb threats against various entities, including businesses, religious institutions, and a university.
The FBI has reported a significant increase in swatting incidents, particularly those linked to ongoing court cases against former President Trump.
Thomas Szabo is currently in custody, while the investigation into their activities continues to ensure justice is served.
Their swatting campaign targeted 61 government officials and 40 private victims, including notable figures like Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
Summary based on 12 sources
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Sources
Los Angeles Times • Aug 28, 2024
2 from Europe charged with 'swatting' plot targeting U.S. officials - Los Angeles TimesHuffPost • Aug 29, 2024
2 Charged In 'Swatting' Plot Targeting Former U.S. President, Members Of Congress