FREDERICK, MD — A major police response in Frederick on Wednesday afternoon turned out to be a dangerous hoax, as local authorities confirmed that a swatting call falsely reported an active assailant in the area.
At approximately 4:24 p.m. on May 28, the Frederick Police Department (FPD) responded to a call alleging a violent emergency. Officers rushed to the scene, prepared to confront what they believed was an active threat. After securing the area and conducting a rapid investigation, they determined the call was a fabrication—a deliberate and criminal attempt to provoke a large-scale emergency response.
“After a thorough assessment, we determined that this was a swatting call,” the department stated in a public release on social media. “There was no threat to the community at that time.”
Swatting is a form of harassment where an individual calls in a fake emergency to provoke a heavy law enforcement presence at someone’s home or location. These incidents not only waste valuable public resources but also place innocent people at risk.
Though no injuries were reported, the incident caused significant disruption in the area and is being taken seriously by local law enforcement.
“This is not a prank,” said one officer familiar with the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity. “It’s a felony. And it puts everyone—officers, residents, even bystanders—at risk of real harm.”
As of this writing, no suspects have been identified or arrested in connection with the false report. The Frederick Police Department has asked anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
A Growing Problem in Maryland
This latest hoax comes as swatting incidents continue to rise nationally. In recent years, Maryland has seen several similar events, prompting calls for stronger legislation and digital tracing tools to track anonymous calls and online threats.
Advocates say it’s time for Maryland lawmakers to treat swatting not just as a nuisance but as a violent crime in itself. “It’s terror by proxy,” said one criminal justice advocate. “You’re weaponizing the police and putting real lives in danger.”
As investigations continue, the FPD urges residents to remain vigilant but not fearful, and to report any suspicious online or phone-based threats.
For updates, follow @MDBayNews on X.com and the official Frederick Police Department page.
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