Background

CLERMONT COUNTY, Ohio (WXIX) – A Pennsylvania man, Michael Eugene Carpenter, 19, from Parkesburg, has been identified as the suspect accused of making false 911 calls regarding shootings and bombs at the White House in Clermont County. The Clermont County Sheriff’s Office has indicted him for swatting, which refers to the act of making hoax emergency calls to law enforcement authorities.

The Incidents

On November 8, a call was made to the Mansfield Police Department claiming a shooting had occurred at a residence on Big Indian Road in Washington Township. The caller, later identified as Carpenter, alleged that he had shot his brother and had his mother tied up. Subsequently, the call was transferred to the Clermont County Communications Center, and emergency personnel were dispatched to the reported location. However, upon arrival, deputies determined that the call was fake, and the residents were unharmed.

Shortly after the first incident, Carpenter placed another 911 call, this time claiming to have “pressure bombs” at the White House and holding a hostage. Recognizing the call as potentially dangerous, the sheriff’s office immediately notified the Secret Service about the threat. Swatting calls are intended to deceive law enforcement into believing that a serious crime is taking place and prompting them to respond urgently.

Following these incidents, on November 13, the communications center in Shelby County received another swatting call. Carpenter allegedly called to report that he had shot his mother, and screaming along with gunshots were heard during the call. Similar to the previous call, the location mentioned was again the residence on Big Indian Road. Emergency personnel was dispatched, but deputies soon confirmed that everyone at the home was safe.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The Clermont County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into the swatting incidents and identified Michael Eugene Carpenter as the caller by analyzing social media records. Detectives are currently collaborating with the Parkesburg Police Department to locate and arrest Carpenter. Once in custody, Carpenter will be extradited to Clermont County to face the charges brought against him.

Conclusion

Swatting is a dangerous act that not only causes panic and wastes valuable resources but also puts innocent lives at risk. Authorities take these incidents seriously and are committed to apprehending individuals involved in such activities. The swift response from law enforcement in Clermont County ensured the safety of the residents, and the collaboration between different police departments demonstrates the commitment to bringing the perpetrator to justice.

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