Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel called on May 1 for tougher laws following a bomb threat at East Lansing High School. Nessel said current legislation does not do enough to address the seriousness of swatting, which involves making false emergency calls to send law enforcement to a specific location.
The issue is important because swatting incidents can cause fear and disrupt schools, while also diverting police resources away from real emergencies. Swatting can put students and staff in danger even if the threat is not real.
“Swatting is a reckless crime that diverts law enforcement resources and leaves students and faculty fearing for their lives,” said Attorney General Nessel. “Our current laws are not strong enough. The Legislature must pass stricter penalties that truly reflect the seriousness of this offense.”
According to the Attorney General’s office, people found guilty of swatting under current Michigan law could face charges ranging from a 93-day misdemeanor for making a false report of a crime, up to felonies carrying sentences as high as 15 years if the false report results in death. Threats involving terrorism or bomb threats carry potential sentences up to 20 years or four years respectively, while malicious use of telecommunications devices may result in up to six months in jail. Fines for these crimes can reach $20,000.
Residents who know about threats against their community are encouraged by officials to contact local law enforcement or leave an anonymous tip with OK2SAY by calling 8-555-OK2SAY (855-565-2729) or texting 652729 (OK2SAY). OK2SAY operates within the Michigan State Police and allows confidential reporting about potential self-harm, harm to others, or criminal acts directed at schools or school employees at any time.
Nessel’s call for legislative action highlights ongoing concerns about school safety and misuse of emergency services.