Claim Of 'Violent Crime' At Point Pleasant Home Was Swatting: Police

POINT PLEASANT, NJ — Point Pleasant police say a report of a "violent crime" in a borough home on Thursday morning was a swatting incident, and they are working to identify the person who made the call.

Police were called to a home on the 200 block of Jaehnel Parkway about 9 a.m., with the caller saying a violent crime was happening inside the home, Capt. Christopher Leonhardt said.

Because of the initial report, police blocked off roads in the vicinity of the home and made sure neighbors were safe, Leonhardt said.

"A substantial police presence was established in the area to manage the situation," he said.

Investigators determined, however, that there was no crime in the home and that the report was a swatting incident — where a false report is made to prompt a significant police response, Leonhardt said.

"There was no evidence of any emergency or criminal activity at the residence," he said.

"Swatting is a serious crime that endangers both residents and first responders," Leonhardt said. "We are actively working to identify the individual(s) responsible for making the false report and will pursue appropriate legal action."

"We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the community during this incident and want to assure our residents that the safety and security of our town remain our top priority," he said.