Pembroke Pines Teen Arrested for Making False "Swatting" Calls to Local High School and City Office

A 14-year-old student has been taken into custody in Pembroke Pines after authorities say he placed a “swatting” call claiming suspicious individuals were approaching a local high school. The call, targeting Charles W. Flanagan High School, led to a prompt police response and precautionary measures being enacted at nearby schools as well. Pembroke Pines Police later disclosed that the call was a hoax, as reported by NBC Miami.

According to the police, the second call made by the teenager threatened the Pembroke Pines City Pension Fund office and also mentioned Flanagan High School. Investigators managed to penetrate through the caller's attempts to conceal his voice and location, and identify a suspect. The Pembroke Pines Police said the suspect was student at the high school and he ultimately admitted to making the calls.

Charges against the youth include making a false report concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner, disruption of a school function, and misuse of the emergency system. A release from the Pembroke Pines Police Department stressed the seriousness of such incidents, stating, “Swatting calls or threats made toward our local schools are not a joke and are fully investigated by our department.” The police urged parents to discuss the potential severe consequences with their children about making false reports to police, as noted by Local 10.

The teenager, who's identity has been kept confidential due to his age, faces several charges that could have long-lasting implications on his future.