The term "911 prey" functions as a noun phrase. In this construction, "prey" is the core noun, identifying a victim. The numerical designator "911" serves as a noun adjunct or adjectival modifier, specifying the context of the victimization. The phrase refers to individuals who are targeted, exploited, or victimized through the malicious use of the emergency response system or during an interaction with it.
This concept describes a specific form of victimology where the emergency services infrastructure is weaponized. A key example is the act of "swatting," where a perpetrator places a hoax call to emergency services to dispatch a large number of armed police officers to a victim's address. Other scenarios include predators who may intercept or respond to emergency calls to gain access to vulnerable individuals, or criminals who use the pretense of an emergency to deceive and target a person. The analytical focus is on the subversion of a system designed for public safety, turning it into a mechanism for creating or targeting a victim.
The practical application of defining this term is critical for law enforcement, emergency dispatch centers, and public policy. Recognizing this pattern allows for the development of improved call verification protocols and training to identify potential misuse of the system. For crime analysis and victim advocacy, it categorizes a unique type of offense where the trauma is compounded by the betrayal of a trusted, life-saving institution. It highlights a systemic vulnerability that requires specific strategies for prevention and response.
