When the Maine Secretary of State, Shenna Bellows, found herself in the midst of a disturbing incident on Friday night, it was a “swatting call” targeting her home, as confirmed by state police.
Following a significant ruling declaring former President Donald Trump constitutionally ineligible for Maine’s primary ballot, a report by NBC News on Sunday, December 31, revealed that this unsettling occurrence unfolded merely a day later.
Around 8:15 p.m., state police received a call from an unidentified man claiming to have broken into Bellows’ residence. Officers promptly responded, only to find the house empty.
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At Bellows’ request, a thorough check of both the exterior and interior of the property was conducted, revealing nothing suspicious.
The caller’s identity remains unknown, and authorities are actively investigating the incident, collaborating with law enforcement partners to enhance security at relevant locations.
“Swatting,” a malicious act involving a false report of a crime or emergency to lure law enforcement, took a disturbing turn in this case after Bellows’ ruling on Trump’s eligibility.
Taking to her Facebook profile on Saturday, Bellows recounted the distressing events, revealing that she and her family were away when the threats intensified, and their home address was disclosed online.
The swatting incident unfolded that night, marked by a fabricated emergency call aimed at triggering an intense law enforcement response.
Bellows acknowledged the potential danger, citing past incidents resulting in casualties, though fortunately, this one did not. Firmly condemning such behavior, she labeled it as unacceptable.
Highlighting incessant threatening communications her team endured the previous day, Bellows emphasized that these tactics aim to instill fear, silencing dissent and sending a chilling message.
Despite the harrowing experience, Bellows expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their support and appreciation toward her department’s employees.
In a statement, she called for de-escalation of rhetoric, urging readers to foster a climate where disagreements can be handled without threats and violence.
“We should be able to agree to disagree on important issues without threats and violence,” Bellows asserted, emphasizing the need for a more civil and respectful discourse, even in the face of deeply divisive political decisions.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by public figures and underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy democratic dialogue.
