(Maire Clayton, Headline USA) Conservative influencers are increasingly being targeted in swatting incidents—false alarm 9-1-1 calls that lead police to responding to an unsuspecting person’s home.
Journalist Breanna Morello first reported the growing issue in a Friday post on Substack.
Those affected include Benny Johnson, Joe Pags, Catturd, Gunther Eagleman, Chase Geiser and Shawn Farash, with others wanting to remain anonymous.
Morello found a pattern with five out of the six individuals in how they were swatted.
The “individuals received unsolicited pizza deliveries from either Papa John’s or Domino’s, typically occurring just before or after the swatting calls.”
“These orders, marked ‘COD’ (cash on delivery), were not prepaid, leaving the targets to deal with confused delivery drivers,” Morello continued. “In some cases, the phone numbers attached to the orders traced back to local police departments, suggesting a deliberate attempt to escalate the prank—or mask its origins.”
Catturd posted on X they got swatted for the fourth time early Friday morning.
I was just swatted again for the 4th time. As I tweeted earlier, I live in the middle of nowhere and know all the cops here. (because of the past swattings) they knew what it was immediately and just called me and sent one officer who I just had a great conversation with. Really…
— Catturd ™ (@catturd2) March 14, 2025
Infowars reporter Chase Geiser said he was swatted twice within a 12 hour period early Wednesday morning.
FBI Director Kash Patel addressed the growing issue Friday in a social media post.
“I want to address the alarming rise in ‘Swatting’ incidents targeting media figures,” Patel began. “The FBI is aware of this dangerous trend, and my team and I are already taking action to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.”
I want to address the alarming rise in ‘Swatting’ incidents targeting media figures. The FBI is aware of this dangerous trend, and my team and I are already taking action to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.
This isn’t about politics—weaponizing law enforcement…
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 14, 2025
Patel added there would be additional updates regarding the incidents.
“This isn’t about politics—weaponizing law enforcement against ANY American is not only morally reprehensible but also endangers lives, including those of our officers,” he noted. “That will not be tolerated. We are fully committed to working with local law enforcement to crack down on these crimes.”
Eagleman, who was also targeted in prior swatting attempts, quickly thanked Patel for addressing the issue.
“LETS GO!!! Thank you Kash!” he wrote.
