In a troubling trend that is gripping the nation, swatting incidents have surged, particularly targeting conservative commentators and activists. Notably, two incidents reported on March 17, 2025, highlight the risks posed to those who take strong political stances. Larry Taunton, a conservative freelance writer from Talladega County, Alabama, and Chad Caton, the national director of the Conservative Caucus, both experienced terrifying encounters where false emergency calls led law enforcement to their homes.
At approximately 3:05 a.m. on March 17, Taunton was at his home on Lay Lake, enjoying a night of peace after a tumultuous trip overseas, when he received unexpected visitors. A false report had been made claiming that three armed burglars invaded his home and had shot him, his wife, and child. Taunton's loyal German shepherd, Ranger, sensed something was amiss and alerted him just moments before SWAT officers entered the property without lights or sirens. Taunton, then armed himself after seeing movement outside, was caught in a dangerous situation where misunderstanding could have easily escalated into violence.
"If I come out and I see a man standing in my living room, especially with a weapon, I'm not asking questions; I'm opening fire," Taunton remarked about the potential for a deadly encounter. Thankfully, upon turning on the lights, he discovered the individuals on his deck were indeed law enforcement officers.
He recounted, "One of the officers would later tell me, you know, by the time you turn on the light, I'm already thinking this is probably a bogus call... he could tell you'd been in bed." Taunton was grateful that the deputies were cautious and acted professionally despite the tension of the situation. "Thank God that didn't happen," he said, reflecting on how the events could have taken a fatal turn.
Following this incident, the Talladega Sheriff's Office is conducting an investigation into the hoax call, with Chief Deputy Josh Tubbs noting the seriousness of such threats. Taunton expressed his belief that whoever made the call intended nothing less than to terrify him and his family. He went as far as to label the act as attempted murder, underscoring the stakes involved.
Meanwhile, in a separate yet similar case, Chad Caton also experienced a swatting incident on the same morning at his home near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Police arrived around 3 a.m. after an individual called 911, pretending to be Caton and reporting armed men breaking into his residence. "My wife and my dog and me were all just asleep and all of a sudden it sounded like somebody crashed their car into my front door," Caton explained.
Initially fearful, Caton reached for his firearm but soon set it down as the realization of the situation dawned on him. "I realized I’m being swatted right now because of whatever and whoever’s coming after conservatives," he stated. As officers instructed him to exit his home, he found himself handcuffed on his front yard, clad only in his boxers, and watching as his wife stepped out of the house at gunpoint.
Following the ordeal, Caton expressed sympathy for the officers who responded, recognizing the pressure that false calls put on law enforcement. "What if I did have a gun?" he questioned, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of swatting events. He is advocating for a national discussion about the growing danger of swatting, stressing that it could lead to tragic outcomes if left unaddressed.
In light of these disturbing occurrences, the FBI is stepping in to address the uptick in swatting incidents, particularly those targeting political figures and media representatives. FBI Director Kash Patel issued a statement emphasizing the agency’s commitment to investigate these dangerous trends and hold accountable those responsible for weaponizing law enforcement against innocent citizens.
Patel affirmed, "This isn't about politics—weaponizing law enforcement against ANY American is not only morally reprehensible but also endangers lives, including those of our officers. That will not be tolerated."
As both Taunton and Caton continue to process their experiences, they reflect on the financial and emotional implications that follow such high-stakes situations. Taunton, despite the close call, remains undeterred in his commitment to his work, stating, “This is my life... I do it because I believe this is where the Lord wants me to be.”
Taunton's investigations into controversial subjects such as the corruption tied to USAID and human trafficking have positioned him at the intersection of significant political discussions. "When you are assailing strongholds, it gets a reaction," he concluded, expressing his belief that opposition to his investigations only reaffirms the integrity of his work.
The Talladega Sheriff's Office and Horry County Police have both confirmed they are evaluating the events to understand the context and prevent future occurrences. While the risks of swatting escalate, officials are now calling on the public to remain vigilant against such alarming threats.
As discussions on the implications of swatting move forward, it becomes clear that effective communication and awareness are vital in preventing further incidence. Both cases are alarming reminders of the potential consequences of misinformation and the misuse of emergency services in a political landscape marked by tension.
In this climate of polarization, it is more crucial than ever for individuals—especially those in positions of influence—to speak out against such acts of intimidation and ensure that swatting does not become a normalized form of harassment in America.
The rise in swatting attempts reflects a concerning trend that society must confront, for it challenges the very fabric of public safety and the integrity of law enforcement.
