PHILADELPHIA, PA — Federal authorities have filed charges against a juvenile in connection with a series of alleged “swatting” incidents targeting universities and other institutions, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Authorities said the incidents occurred in August 2025 and involved hoax emergency calls reporting immediate threats to human life.
According to investigators, “swatting” refers to false reports made to emergency services designed to trigger a large law enforcement response, often involving SWAT teams.
Federal officials allege the juvenile was connected to a cybercriminal group known as “Purgatory” and selected victim institutions at random, without affiliation to those locations.
Authorities stated the calls are believed to have diverted significant law enforcement and emergency resources, as first responders treated each report as a legitimate threat.
According to investigators, the case involved coordination among the FBI, Radnor Township Police Department, Pennsylvania State Police, Upper Merion Police Department, and numerous other agencies and first responders across the region and country.
Officials said victim institutions will be notified and provided with contact information for the FBI as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the charges are allegations and the case remains active.
All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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