Courtesy: Bay County Sheriff’s Office
UPPER GRAND LAGOON, Fla. – A 14-year-old Florida boy was arrested after he told investigators he made a series of swatting calls, including one incident involving Six Flags Magic Mountain in California. The teen also admitted to setting a vehicle on fire at a towing business near his home, according to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.
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Florida teen swatting and arson arrest
The backstory:
The investigation began with a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, according to the sheriff’s office.
BCSO investigators followed a digital trail that led to a home on Amy Lane near Panama City Beach.
On Sept. 15, BCSO SWAT, investigators, Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI executed a search warrant at the home.
Investigators said the teen, who is not being named due to his age, admitted to using the online name “Lenny” and participating in a swatting group.
Swatting incidents and vehicle fireÂ
Dig deeper:
According to investigators, the teen admitted to making several swatting calls, including one targeting a neighboring home. The caller falsely reported that someone had been shot, a bomb was present and hostages were inside.
Investigators also said the teen admitted to participating in swatting incidents involving Six Flags Magic Mountain in California and a school in Ohio.
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The teen reportedly told investigators he was paid in cryptocurrency to make swatting calls for other people.
Investigators also accused the teen of setting a vehicle on fire at Discount Towing on Traina Lane in May.
Seven vehicles were damaged in the fire, according to the sheriff’s office.
Investigators said the 14-year-old admitted to setting the fire because “he was bored.”
The teen was charged with five counts of arson and two counts of false reports concerning planting a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the sheriff’s office said additional charges are possible.
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