BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bakersfield Police Department is investigating an incident they're referring to as "SWATTING," which is when a person reports a high risk emergency as a prank call.
According to a press release, BPD received a call around 3 a.m. Sunday morning in which the caller said he shot his mother and she needed an ambulance. The caller also said if he saw police officers he would shoot them before going to jail.
14 officers responded to the scene with an armored vehicle. The house in question, located on Harrington Street, was surrounded by officers who used a public address system, asking the residents to walk outside. After all residents had exited their home, BPD said it was clear everyone was safe and no crime had occurred. The investigation found that the people living at the house had no connection to the caller.
This "SWATTING" incident is an ongoing investigation. BPD said it is a felony to falsely report an emergency that could led to major injury or death, and could result in serving up to three years in prison and fines up to $10,000. Anyone with information is asked to call the Bakersfield Police Department at 321-7111.
