(TERRE HAUTE) - Indiana Senator Greg Goode (R-Terre Haute) says he and his family were the victims of a "swatting incident" Sunday night, occurring just hours after President Trump criticized him on social media. Goode confirmed the incident in a press release, stating that "a fake communication was sent to local law enforcement officials," prompting Vigo County sheriff's deputies to respond under the belief that there was a domestic violence emergency at his home.
According to the Vigo County Sheriff's Office, an email sent to the Terre Haute Police Department claimed that harm had been done to individuals inside a residence in southern Vigo County. When officers arrived at Goode's home, they found everyone safe and unharmed.
Vigo County Sheriff Derek Fell condemned the false report, saying such calls "will never be acceptable," noting that they divert critical resources and negatively impact the targeted families. He added that his office, along with federal authorities, will investigate the incident with the intent of identifying whoever is responsible. The swatting occurred shortly after Trump posted on Truth Social that he was "very disappointed" in Goode and other Indiana senators "for not wanting to redistrict their state." In his full statement, Goode thanked Sheriff Fell, Terre Haute Police Chief Kevin Barrett, and first responders. He called the incident "unfortunate and reflective of the volatile nature of our current political environment," expressing gratitude that his family was unharmed.
This is Senator Goode's full statement: "This evening, my family and I were victims of a swatting incident during which a fake communication was sent to local law enforcement officials. Vigo County sheriff's deputies responded to the incident under the impression of a domestic violence emergency. The deputies professionally fulfilled their duty. While this entire incident is unfortunate and reflective of the volatile nature of our current political environment, I give thanks to God that my family and I are ok. I want to thank Vigo County Sheriff Derek Fell, Terre Haute Police Chief Kevin Barrett and the first responders who serve our county and community with bravery and professionalism."
Here is a copy of President Trump's full message from Truth Social: "Very disappointed in Indiana State Senate Republicans, led by RINO Senators Rod Bray and Greg Goode, for not wanting to redistrict their State, allowing the United States Congress to perhaps gain two more Republican seats. The Democrats have done redistricting for years, often illegally, and all other appropriate Republican States have done it. Because of these two politically correct type "gentlemen," and a few others, they could be depriving Republicans of a Majority in the House, A VERY BIG DEAL! California is trying to pick up five seats, and no one is complaining about that. It's weak "Republicans" that cause our Country such problems -- It's why we have crazy Policies and Ideas that are so bad for America. Also, a friend of mine, Governor Mike Braun, perhaps, is not working the way he should to get the necessary Votes. Considering that Mike wouldn't be Governor without me (Not even close!), is disappointing! Any Republican that votes against this important redistricting, potentially having an impact on America itself, should be PRIMARIED. Indiana is a State with strong, smart, and patriotic people. They want us to see our Country WIN, and want to, "MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!" Senators Bray, Goode, and the others to be released to the public later this afternoon, should DO THEIR JOB, AND DO IT NOW! If not, let's get them out of office, ASAP."