LAWRENCE, MA — The Lawrence Police Department responded to a false emergency report Monday night that prompted a large-scale law enforcement response.
At approximately 10:30 p.m., police received a call regarding a residence near the intersection of Lawrence Street and Walnut Street.
A male individual made statements during the call that raised concerns about a potential emergency at the location.
Officers were immediately dispatched to conduct a well-being check at the residence.
Upon arrival, officers evacuated occupants from the building and established a secure perimeter as a precaution while additional resources were requested.
The Department’s Emergency Response Team responded to the scene and conducted a comprehensive security sweep of the entire building.
No individuals were found to be injured or in distress, and officers did not locate any evidence indicating the presence of an active emergency or threat.
Authorities determined that the incident was the result of a swatting call, a false report intended to prompt a large-scale law enforcement response.
In Massachusetts, swatting false emergency reports can lead to up to one year in jail and a fine, and can also trigger federal felony charges with significant prison time under certain situations.
The incident remains under investigation.
