Scott vows legislation targeting ‘cowards’ who make fake police calls after personal incident

NAPLES, Fla. – Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., announced he is talking with law enforcement to consider what legislation can be put forth to combat “swatting” incidences, following his own personal experience over the Christmas season.

“I’m going to make sure that the cowards who make these calls & waste law enforcement resources to terrorize & harass their targets will face real consequences,” Scott said.

“I’m talking to law enforcement about what legislation is needed to guarantee justice when ‘swatting’ calls happen,” he said.

Scott personally experienced being “swatted” when an individual called law enforcement with a false emergency at Scott’s Naples residence.

“Last night, while at dinner with my wife, cowards “swatted” my home in Naples,” Scott said on social media. “These criminals wasted the time & resources of our law enforcement in a sick attempt to terrorize my family.”

“Ann & I want to thank @NaplesPolice & @CollierSheriff for all they do to keep us safe,” he said.

False reports to law enforcement authorities are punishable with a misdemeanor in Florida, but can be upgraded to a felony under certain circumstances.

Other states, including Pennsylvania and Georgia have considered increasing punishments for fake 911 calls in order to deter criminals from “swatting” various people.