S. Officials**

A Romanian man, Thomasz Szabo, has admitted in a U.S. District Court to leading a protracted conspiracy involving swatting and bomb threats across the United States. The 26-year-old, also known as "Plank," "Jonah," and "Cypher," entered his plea before Judge Amy Berman Jackson, acknowledging his role in orchestrating false reports of violence at various locations including government buildings, homes of worship, private residences, and even the homes of senior government officials.

Announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro condemned Szabo's actions, emphasizing their dangerous repercussions. "This defendant's targeted and ruthless behavior put countless people in danger, including law enforcement, public officials, and ordinary citizens. Swatting attacks drain precious resources and can result in major injury or even death," Pirro stated.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi highlighted the international dimensions of Szabo's crimes, underlining the coordinated efforts required to bring him to justice. "This case reflects our continued focus on protecting the American people and working with international partners to stop these threats at their source," she said.

Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool of the U.S. Secret Service's Washington Field Office praised the investigative efforts leading to Szabo's plea. "This plea agreement is a testament to the extraordinary investigative work, tenacity, and global reach of the U.S. Secret Service and our partners," McCool said.

According to court documents, Szabo founded and led an online community that, from late 2020, engaged in numerous swatting and bomb threat incidents. His network falsely reported ongoing threats of violence to provoke law enforcement responses. Notable instances included a mass-shooting threat against New York City synagogues in December 2020 and a threat to detonate explosives at the U.S. Capitol and harm the President-elect in January 2021.

The spree of threats, carried out by Szabo’s subordinates, targeted at least 25 Members of Congress or their family members, six senior U.S. Executive Branch officials, 13 federal law enforcement officials, and multiple state government officials, religious institutions, and media members between December 2023 and January 2024.

Extradited from Romania in November 2024, Szabo is scheduled for sentencing on October 23. The case has been investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, the U.S. Capitol Police, and assisted by various international and domestic partners, culminating in the guilty plea announced today.