DeSantis UNLEASHES Crackdown—Swatters Beware

Person signing a document with a pen.

Governor Ron DeSantis takes decisive action against ‘swatting’ pranksters in Florida, signing a new law that turns these dangerous hoaxes into serious felonies with jail time and financial penalties.

Key Takeaways

  • Governor DeSantis signed HB 279, establishing felony charges for false 911 reports resulting in serious injury (3rd Degree) or death (2nd Degree)
  • The law requires offenders to pay restitution to law enforcement and victims, with enhanced charges for repeat offenders
  • DeSantis also signed SB 1470 enhancing school safety by allowing trained staff to carry weapons on campus and authorizing childcare facilities to partner with sheriff’s offices
  • The governor characterized swatting as “a tactic of cowards” used for political harassment and a waste of critical law enforcement resources
  • This legislation builds upon Florida’s 2021 anti-swatting measures, positioning the state as a leader in combating this dangerous practice

Florida Toughens Stance on Dangerous ‘Swatting’ Pranks

Governor Ron DeSantis has taken a firm stand against the dangerous practice of “swatting” by signing House Bill 279 into law. The new legislation significantly increases penalties for individuals who make false emergency reports to trigger massive police responses to innocent people’s homes or businesses. These malicious hoaxes not only endanger citizens but divert critical law enforcement resources away from genuine emergencies. The bill introduces serious felony charges for cases resulting in injury or death, building upon Florida’s 2021 initial effort to combat this growing problem.

“Swatting is a tactic of cowards who use fake reports to law enforcement to harass people who they disagree with politically. Today, Florida gets even tougher on swatting. I signed HB 279 which introduces felony charges for individuals who make false 911 reports that result in significant harm. If you try this in our state, you will face punishment,” Governor Ron DeSantis said during the signing ceremony.

The comprehensive legislation establishes a tiered penalty system: false reports resulting in death will be classified as a 2nd Degree Felony, while those causing serious injury will constitute a 3rd Degree Felony. Repeat offenders will face enhanced charges, and all perpetrators will be required to pay restitution to law enforcement agencies for wasted resources and to victims for damages incurred. This aggressive approach aims to deter potential offenders and protect Floridians from these increasingly common politically-motivated attacks.

Enhanced School Safety Measures

During the same ceremony in Winter Haven, DeSantis also signed Senate Bill 1470, significantly expanding Florida’s Guardian Program. This crucial legislation allows properly trained school staff to carry weapons on campus, providing an additional layer of security for students. The bill also authorizes childcare facilities to partner with local sheriff’s offices for security training. These measures reflect Florida’s continuing commitment to preventing school tragedies through proactive security planning rather than reactionary gun control policies.

“It’s taking resources and time and manpower away from actually doing the job that we want our law enforcement and first responders to do,” DeSantis said regarding the impact of swatting incidents on public safety resources.

SB 1470 includes detailed provisions for school security, mandating that security agencies cover all training and screening costs for school security guards. The bill also revises access control requirements for campus access doors, classroom doors, gates, and other entry points. Additionally, all school security guards must receive approval from the county sheriff, ensuring proper vetting and qualifications. These comprehensive measures demonstrate Florida’s commitment to creating secure learning environments without compromising educational quality.

Additional Protections for Law Enforcement and Vulnerable Citizens

The third bill signed during the ceremony, HB 1099, provides law enforcement officers with greater discretion when dealing with individuals who have significant health conditions. This compassionate yet practical measure allows officers to make appropriate judgments in sensitive situations without compromising public safety. The legislation reflects a balanced approach to law enforcement that prioritizes both officer safety and the well-being of citizens with special health considerations.

“We want to make sure we’re protecting the police officers as they’re doing jobs in very difficult circumstances,” DeSantis said, highlighting the importance of supporting law enforcement personnel.

During the news conference, DeSantis also addressed questions about an investigation into the Hope Florida Foundation, which is associated with Florida’s First Lady Casey DeSantis. The governor strongly defended the foundation against what he characterized as politically motivated attacks, particularly criticizing State Representative Alex Andrade for providing evidence against Hope Florida to prosecutors. This exchange highlights the increasingly partisan nature of state politics, even when dealing with charitable initiatives designed to help Floridians in need.

The legislative package signed by Governor DeSantis represents Florida’s proactive approach to protecting citizens and supporting law enforcement. By establishing serious consequences for dangerous pranks, enhancing school security, and providing officers with appropriate discretion, these laws demonstrate the state’s commitment to maintaining public safety while respecting individual rights. Florida continues to lead the nation in common-sense governance that prioritizes the well-being of law-abiding citizens over the interests of criminals and political agitators.

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