(Today’s Northumberland file photo)
The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) is providing an update in relation to ongoing swatting investigations after police were dispatched to multiple swatting incidents across the Town of Cobourg.
Over the past ten days, police have responded to numerous swatting incidents at local schools, residences, and businesses in Cobourg. Based on information currently available, investigators believe these incidents are linked to online exploitation and extortion of youth, originating through interactions on social media, gaming, and online chat platforms.
The CPS Criminal Investigation Bureau continues to actively investigate and is working in collaboration with external law enforcement partners, including the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), to identify those responsible.
Anyone with information related to this incident or similar occurrences is asked to contact the Cobourg Police Service or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or visiting stopcrimehere.ca.
Tips received through Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
CPS takes all reports of threats or potential risks to community safety seriously and responds accordingly to protect the public. CPS continues to work closely with emergency services, municipal partners, and school administrators. Thank you to the community for the ongoing patience and diligence as we work to maintain community safety.
“Online extortion and swatting are serious crimes with real consequences. False emergency reports divert critical resources and create dangerous situations for residents and first responders. We recognize the fear and disruption caused by large-scale emergency responses, particularly in sensitive locations such as schools, and we appreciate the community’s ongoing patience and understanding as we manage these impacts and work to bring those responsible to justice. We want to reassure parents, students, and community members that police will continue to respond to all reported threats with urgency and care to ensure the safety of our schools and community. We encourage youth and families to talk openly, access available supports, and report concerning behaviour.” – Chief Paul VandeGraaf, Cobourg Police Service.
“The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our highest priorities. While the recent ‘swatting’ incidents have been deeply disruptive and distressing for our school community, they have also highlighted the incredible resilience of our students and the professionalism of our staff. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Cobourg Police Service and our municipal partners for their rapid response, expert guidance, and ongoing commitment to the safety of St. Mary Catholic Secondary School. We also thank our families for their patience and trust as we work together to maintain a safe, calm, and supportive learning environment. We remain fully committed to supporting the police in their investigation to ensure those responsible are held accountable.” – Stephen O’Sullivan, Director of Education, Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington (PVNC) Catholic District School Board
“In the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, our priority is always the safety, security and well-being of our students and staff. We appreciate our longstanding relationship with Cobourg Police, including in particular their immediate and effective responses to recent swatting incidents in schools and the community. In the event of a threat or emergency response, we rely on the expertise of local police partners to ensure a coordinated approach that supports the safety and protection of students. We recognize that these situations are distressing, and we appreciate the partnership of families and the cooperation of students and staff in following established safety protocols,” says Paul Brown, Chairperson of the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
What is Swatting
Swatting is a criminal offence involving the deliberate reporting of false or misleading information to provoke an emergency response. These incidents place residents, officers, and first responders at risk and divert critical emergency resources. Individuals found responsible may face serious criminal charges.
Online Safety
The Cobourg Police Service reminds the public of the risks associated with online interactions and the importance of reporting concerning online behaviour. Online safety is particularly important for young people using gaming platforms, social media, and chat applications.
• Never share personal information online (such as your address, school, or phone number)
• Use privacy settings and avoid engaging with unknown users
• Never share images, videos, or private information
• Report threats or demands to the platform and police
• Tell a trusted adult immediately if something online feels uncomfortable or concerning
• Block and report suspicious users directly through the platform
Support and Resources:
The Cobourg Police Service encourages families to maintain open conversations about online activity and to report concerning behaviour as soon as possible. Resources available include:
• mediasmarts.ca provides digital media literacy programs and resources for Canadian homes, schools and communities.
• ProtectKidsOnline.ca provides guidance for parents and caregivers and resources and materials for educators.
• Cybertip.ca is Canada’s national tipline for reporting online sexual exploitation
• NeedHelpNow.ca provides immediate help for youth affected by online extortion
• Kids Help Phone is confidential support for youth available 24 hours a day by phone 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
• Victim Services Peterborough & Northumberland support and resources for individuals and families affected by crime
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
