For Immediate Release

Friday, Oct. 2, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Contact: Jessica Sacco
Phone: 978-769-5193
Email: jessica@jgpr.net

Ipswich Police Investigating False Report of Violence

IPSWICH – Chief Paul Nikas reports that the Ipswich Police Department is investigating an apparent false report where an individual called police and claimed he had harmed someone in an attempt to illicit a large response from public safety officials.

On Oct. 1, at approximately 7:45 p.m., the Ipswich Police Communication Center received a call where a man reported he had harmed his girlfriend at an address in town and was subsequently going to harm responding police officers and those at the station.

As a result of these threats, police placed a call to the Cape Ann Regional Response Team (CAART) to assist in securing the Ipswich Police Department while officers responded to the scene.

After canvassing the neighborhood, police determined there was no danger to the public and that the caller intentionally fabricated a story to gain a police response, also known as swatting. Police believe residents were never in any danger.

“We determined this was a false report specifically designed to illicit public panic and unrest,” Chief Nikas said. “The suspect took away valuable resources that would have been needed in the event that a real emergency had occurred. We are actively and aggressively pursuing this suspect and working with our state and federal partners for assistance.”

The investigation remains open and ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ipswich Police Department at 978-356-4343.

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