This week saw a wave of "swatting" incidents targeted several conservative media personalities, including a talk show host. Swatting involves making a fake 911 call to dispatch police to an unsuspecting victim’s home, often under the pretense of a serious crime.
Joe Pags, a veteran San Antonio radio host whose show continues to air nationwide, reported being swatted in the early hours of Wednesday morning. He said the perpetrator contacted Comal County sheriff’s deputies, falsely claiming a shooting and hostage crisis was unfolding at his residence. Footage from Pags’ security camera captured one of the many deputies who arrived, guns drawn, in response to the hoax.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Pags remarked, "It’s as terrifying for the police as it is for me. They don’t want to stumble into a firefight at 2:30 a.m. in rural Comal County, Texas. Their goal is to protect people and be available for genuine emergencies."
Pags took to X to share his experience, posting, "Yes—my family and I were swatted. Here’s how it unfolded, including the video from my front door camera at 2:35 a.m. How would you handle this? This has to end!"
On Friday, FBI Director Kash Patel addressed the surge in swatting attacks against prominent conservative voices, stating, "I want to confront the disturbing increase in swatting incidents aimed at media figures. The FBI is tracking this dangerous pattern, and my team is actively investigating to ensure accountability. This isn’t a political issue—using law enforcement as a weapon against any American is morally wrong and puts lives at risk, including those of our officers. We won’t stand for it. We’re partnering with local authorities to stamp out these crimes."
I want to address the alarming rise in ‘Swatting’ incidents targeting media figures. The FBI is aware of this dangerous trend, and my team and I are already taking action to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) March 14, 2025
This isn’t about politics—weaponizing law enforcement…
Among other reported victims this week were social media influencer Gunther Eagleman and Infowars host Chase Geiser, both of whom said they were targeted by false swatting calls. Conservative commentators Shawn Farash, Nick Sortor, and the popular parody account Catturd also claimed to have been swatted in recent days, highlighting the breadth of this troubling trend.
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