MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – A Ruskin man has been arrested and charged in connection with an elaborate “swatting” incident that prompted a large law enforcement response to a Key Largo residence last month.
Leonardo Javier Barrera, 20, was taken into custody in Hillsborough County, Florida, on October 15, 2025. He faces charges including unlawful use of a two-way communication device and giving false information concerning the commission of a felony.
The charges stem from a 911 call made on September 6, 2025, reporting a dire situation at a home on 3rd Road. The caller falsely claimed to be suicidal and armed with a Glock, threatening to kill himself. The caller also alleged he had his family tied up in the basement and would detonate a bomb if anyone attempted to open the door…