Ned Luke, known for playing Michael De Santa in Grand Theft Auto 5, has been victim to multiple swatting attempts over several years. At least one individual involved in these attacks was sentenced in August 2026 to four years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release and a $200 fine [1, 2].
Luke shared a letter from the US Department of Justice confirming the sentencing and posted a message mocking the perpetrator. "Don't drop the soap in the shower douchebag. Won't be swatting anyone anytime soon... and they're coming for the ones he ratted out as well," Luke wrote [1, 2].
The swatting against Luke dates back to at least 2023, when police responded to a hoax emergency call during a Thanksgiving livestream of Luke playing GTA 5 [2]. Police have visited Luke's home multiple times since then due to similar false reports. In December 2025, officers arrived at his residence and acknowledged the call was likely a hoax [1, 2].
Luke has clarified that Rockstar Games had no role in leaking his personal information. He remarked, "These assholes leaked my private info years ago and have been doing this shit since. Anyone's info is available online if you are sick enuff to really wanna find it." [2]
The defendant’s identity has not been made public in the sentencing documents shared by Luke [2]. The six-year combined sentence including supervised release marks a significant legal response to swatting crimes targeting public figures.
Authorities continue to pursue additional suspects connected to the swatting incidents, according to Luke’s statements [1, 2].
