WASHINGTON – A former U.S. president and several members of Congress were targets of a plot carried out by two European men to intimidate and threaten dozens of people by calling in bogus reports of police emergencies at their homes, according to court records unsealed on Wednesday.

The scheme involved Thomasz Szabo, 26, of Romania, and Nemanja Radovanovic, 21, of Serbia, who targeted roughly 100 individuals with “swatting” calls, instigating aggressive police responses, as per a federal indictment.

While the former president and officials were not explicitly named in the charges, one victim is described as a “former elected official from the executive branch” who fell victim to a swatting incident on Jan. 9, 2024, where Radovanovic falsely reported a killing and a threat of explosion at the victim’s residence.

The indictment details how Szabo and Radovanovic selected targets from both political parties, emphasizing their lack of allegiance to any side.

The calls included threats of mass shootings at New York City synagogues, setting off explosives at the U.S. Capitol and a university, among others, with the plot spanning more than three years.

Both defendants face charges of conspiracy and multiple threats, with authorities pointing out the serious consequences of swatting as it puts lives at risk, wastes police resources, and causes emotional trauma.

Szabo organized chat groups to coordinate attacks against various individuals, including high-profile officials, while Radovanovic made false reports leading to police responses and vehicle accidents.

The surge in swatting incidents in late 2023 and early 2024, linked to court cases involving former President Trump, prompted a crackdown on such criminal activities, with authorities vowing to pursue extradition and trial for the perpetrators.

The apprehension of Szabo and Radovanovic brings relief to the victims and sends a strong message that such dangerous antics will not be tolerated, ensuring the safety and security of public officials and private citizens alike.

The investigation and legal proceedings continue as authorities work to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions, protecting the integrity of law enforcement and public safety.

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