Ohio Teen Faces Federal Prison After Admitting to Swatting Incidents That Impacted Schools, Police in Multiple States

A 19-year-old Ohio man has admitted in federal court to taking part in a coordinated series of false emergency calls and online harassment that disrupted public safety services in communities across the country, including Pennsylvania and Virginia. The scheme caused school lockdowns, wasted law enforcement resources, and led to armed responses to fake threats.

Brayden Grace of Columbus, Ohio, pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy, cyberstalking, interstate threats, and making threats to use fire and explosives. As part of an online group calling itself “Purgatory,” Grace and others used platforms like Telegram and Instagram to coordinate “swatting” and “doxxing” attacks. These actions involved making hoax emergency calls to prompt law enforcement responses and posting victims’ private information online. One such incident included a threat at Newark High School in Delaware, which forced a lockdown during school hours and drew a police response.

The group also made violent threats to police departments in states such as Alabama, New York, and Ohio. In one case, they threatened to shoot and use explosives at the Albany International Airport, prompting an emergency response. Another targeted incident in Columbus involved threats against the Hollywood Casino. The conspirators used internet-based phone services to mask their identities, further complicating law enforcement investigations.

Grace’s actions, along with those of his co-conspirators, stretched the resources of multiple police departments, including those in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania and Giles County, Virginia. The FBI, along with local and regional agencies, ultimately identified and charged the group members. Grace faces up to 10 years in prison for each charge involving threats of fire or explosives, and up to 5 years for conspiracy and cyberstalking. Sentencing is scheduled for August 14.

Article by multiple contributors, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland

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