FL Makes Hoax 911 Calls That Cause Harm a Crime, Effective July 1, 2025

WEST PALM BEACH, Florida — Criminal defense attorney Ronald S. Chapman emphasizes the gravity of Florida’s newly enacted House Bill 279, which took effect on July 1, 2025. The legislation imposes far-reaching consequences on those placing malicious or deceptive calls to 911, commonly known as “swatting,” when such actions result in serious injury or death.

Under HB 279’s strict new measures:

• A third-degree felony will be charged when a false 911 call leads to great bodily harm, permanent disfigurement, or permanent disability. This offense is ranked as a Level 2 under Florida’s Criminal Punishment Code.
• A second-degree felony applies if the hoax call results in death, with the offense now elevated to a Level 5 ranking.
• Courts are mandated to impose restitution and cost recovery, requiring convicted individuals to compensate public safety agencies and victims for response costs and other damages.

Attorney Insight: Swatting Is No Longer a “Joke”

Chapman warns that what some may view as a foolish prank now inflicts severe legal exposure: “Swatting is reckless, dangerous and now criminal in a way that carries real jail time and financial consequences,” he explained. “What was once seen as a prank may now eclipse misdemeanor territory and become a major felony case.”

Chapman urges communities and legal professionals to treat these acts seriously:

• Prosecutorial power increased: The state can pursue charges vigorously, with sentencing points automatically elevated under the punishment chart.
• Victims and agencies must be compensated: Restitution is non-negotiable to fully address the physical and financial costs of emergency response.
• Defense strategy must be sharp: Early engagement with counsel mitigates exposure, contests causation, or limits severity, especially if harm is indirect or unintended.

For more information about HB 279 or to schedule a confidential consultation, contact Ronald S. Chapman, P.A. at (561) 832‑4348 or visit https://justiceflorida.com.

About Ronald S. Chapman, P.A.

Ron Chapman has 35 years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer. He represents people accused of committing a wide range of crimes in both State and Federal Court in Florida. Those crimes include DUI, battery, economic crimes such as theft and dealing in stolen property, animal abuse, traffic crimes such as reckless driving, murder, manslaughter, crimes against children, federal crimes involving guns and drugs, crimes against the elderly, appeals, and violations of probation.

If you or someone you know requires the assistance of a proven criminal defense attorney, look no further than the law firm of Ronald S. Chapman. Call him today at (561) 832-4348 or visit his website at https://www.justiceflorida.com/. His professional team is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.