The Fairfax County Police Department responded to a swatting attempt at the Virginia home of Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett on Wednesday night. Authorities received a report of gunfire outside her residence, prompting a police response. Upon arrival, officers determined the call was likely a swatting attempt after consulting with security personnel at the property and finding no evidence of gunfire.
According to the police, the call was received through the department’s non-emergency line at approximately 9:02 p.m. Officers coordinated with Supreme Court Police and quickly established that the report was fictitious. Police audio indicated that dispatchers suspected a false emergency call early on, as they were unable to reach the original caller.
Swatting is defined as falsely reporting a violent emergency to provoke an armed police response at a victim's address. This tactic has increasingly targeted public figures, including elected officials and judges. Justice Barrett, appointed by President Donald Trump, has faced heightened security concerns following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Her family has also been targeted by threats, including a bomb threat against her sister in March 2024, which was later deemed unfounded. The incident reflects ongoing concerns regarding threats against members of the judiciary, with increased security measures implemented in recent years due to various incidents involving judges and their families.
