DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Pledges to Combat Swatting Calls Targeting Conservative Media

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem joined forces with FBI Director Kash Patel to address the alarming increase in swatting calls aimed at conservative media personalities. During a press conference on Wednesday, Noem expressed her determination to “hunt these cowards down,” indicating a resolute stance against the dangerous practice.

Swatting involves falsely reporting emergencies such as hostage situations to provoke a response from law enforcement, often at the homes of prominent individuals. This malicious act poses severe risks to the lives of both the victims and the responding officers.

Noem stated that under the leadership of President Trump, the DHS would not stand by while conservative media and their families face such threats. In her post on X, she emphasized the necessity of a strong response to safeguard these individuals.

The FBI has noted a significant rise in swatting incidents, particularly directing its concerns toward media figures and their loved ones. Patel affirmed that the Bureau is actively investigating these reports and has recognized the grave implications of such actions.

Noem highlighted the capabilities of the DHS to trace phone numbers and track the locations from which these calls originate. She underscored the importance of holding accountable those responsible for this form of harassment, characterizing it as an attack on both law enforcement and innocent families.

In recent months, several conservative media members, including radio and podcast hosts, have reported becoming victims of swatting events in their own homes. Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo, a prominent conservative radio host, recounted a harrowing experience where he was woken by armed deputies responding to a purported hostage crisis at his residence.

During the incident, Pagliarulo received a security alert that showed an armed deputy at his front door holding an AR-15. He described the moment as intense, noting the uncertainty about whether the responders were indeed law enforcement or individuals posing a real threat.

Pagliarulo detailed how dispatchers had received a fabricated 911 call claiming a hostage situation and describing gruesome details that turned out to be entirely false. He expressed his frustration, stating that while he and his family were peacefully sleeping, a malicious individual sought to manipulate law enforcement into breaking down his door.

The deputy’s response to the fabricated emergency involved assessing a situation that did not exist, placing unnecessary strain on both law enforcement and the victims. Pagliarulo’s heart raced in the moments between alarm and understanding, illustrating the panic and uncertainty that swatting instills in its victims.

After his encounter, Pagliarulo reached out to Patel, who promptly issued a statement addressing the rising trend of swatting incidents targeting media figures. Patel’s remarks emphasized the urgency of tackling this issue, highlighting that the FBI is fully committed to investigating and ensuring accountability for those engaging in this dangerous behavior.

Furthermore, Patel clarified that swatting transcends political boundaries, emphasizing that weaponizing law enforcement against any American is ethically indefensible and profoundly dangerous. He reiterated the Bureau’s commitment to collaborating with local law enforcement to eradicate this escalating trend.

Swatting incidents have not only affected Pagliarulo but also numerous other conservative figures. Podcaster Nick Sortor and Host Shawn Farash reported similar experiences on the same day Pagliarulo faced his ordeal. InfoWars host Owen Shroyer shared a video detailing his own swatting incident, emphasizing the growing prevalence of this form of harassment.

This concerning situation has catalyzed legislative measures. A bipartisan, bicameral bill introduced in January aims to strengthen penalties against individuals involved in swatting, offering prison sentences of up to 20 years for false calls that lead to significant injury or even death.

Bill cosponsor Rep. Brandon Gill of Texas described swatting as a form of political terrorism, stressing the necessity of addressing this rising threat promptly. He warned that the dangerous nature of swatting could result in fatal consequences if left unchecked.

The DHS has yet to respond to inquiries from the press regarding their actions and strategies in tackling this issue, but the focus remains on enhancing the safety of those targeted in these incidents.

As the fight against swatting intensifies, Noem’s commitment to protecting conservative media figures sends a clear message. The community, politicians, and law enforcement agencies must work collectively to end the use of swatting as a weapon against individuals simply exercising their right to free speech.

In light of recent events, the conversation surrounding media safety and the implications of swatting is more critical than ever. The active pursuit of justice and accountability could deter future attempts and ensure that individuals can express their views without fear of harassment or danger.

Fox News Digital’s Brie Stimson contributed to this report.