Red Deer RCMP warn public about the dangers of ‘swatting’

Feb 21, 2025 | 4:13 PM

In recent weeks, several fabricated calls reporting false emergencies have been received by Red Deer RCMP.

This practice is sometimes known as ‘swatting’; it involves the caller falsely reporting a violent crime, such as a hostage situation or active shooter, thus triggering an immediate and high-risk police response.

The term references a police response that may require a ‘swat’ team.

“These false reports are greatly concerning, and can lead to unnecessary evacuations and property damage. They also lead police to respond urgently, creating unnecessary risks and wasting critical resources,” Red Deer RCMP say in a release.

“The act of ‘swatting’ is criminal and there are serious consequences. Those responsible can be charged with crimes ranging from public mischief to more serious offences, such as criminal negligence causing bodily harm or death. These charges reflect the extreme risk that ‘swatting’ poses to communities. Every swatting incident diverts valuable emergency resources away from genuine crises, potentially endangering the lives of first responders, bystanders, the intended victim, and the community as a whole.”

Swatting is not a prank, RCMP reiterate, emphasizing that it is a serious criminal act with severe legal consequences.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents are asked to contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1‐800‐222‐8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

by rdnewsNOW Staff