"Rising Swatting Threat: Targeting Public Officials Sparks Legislation and Fear"

More than a dozen public officials, including judges, politicians, and a prosecutor, have been targeted by swatting calls since Christmas, prompting police to dispatch SWAT teams to their homes. Swatting is a dangerous and illegal scheme aimed at harassing and menacing public figures, and the recent surge in incidents has raised concerns about the safety of both the officials and law enforcement responders. The FBI has reported over 500 swatting incidents nationwide since May, and there are calls for stricter penalties, including up to 20 years in prison, for those involved in swatting attacks.