RWPD Swatting Terror Groups

The Red Wing Police Department (RWPD) participated in multiple investigations last week, collaborating with federal and international partners.

Swatting Incidents Tied to Cybercrime Group: 

On October 14 and October 16, RWPD officers and Red Wing firefighters responded to two separate emergency calls reporting multiple shooting victims at a residence in the 1300 block of East Avenue.

Both calls were quickly determined to be “swatting” incidents—false reports intended to trigger a large-scale armed response.

RWPD’s Investigations Unit launched an extensive inquiry, uncovering ties to an organized cybercrime network that targets children and teenagers through extortion and acts of violence.

Evidence suggests those involved are connected to an extremist group recognized as a terrorist organization by the U.S. Department of Justice and the FBI.

In cooperation with U.S. and international partners, RWPD investigators worked with law enforcement authorities in the United Kingdom. On October 24, 2025, an arrest was made overseas in direct connection to the Red Wing incidents. This remains an active and ongoing investigation. 

On October 21, RWPD investigators teamed up with the U.S. Marshals to capture 48-year-old Jason Shelby Richards, a fugitive wanted in Anchorage, Alaska, on charges involving crimes against children. Richards was taken into custody in Red Wing after days of coordinated tracking.

Last week, RWPD investigators also recovered a stolen vehicle in North Minneapolis that was tied to a burglary reported in Red Wing on October 20. That case remains active.