An individual from Indiana, Andrew Nickels, has pleaded guilty to sending a threatening communication to an election worker in Michigan.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri emphasized the importance of safeguarding election officials and workers, stating that the Justice Department would vigorously investigate and prosecute those attempting to undermine democracy by threatening violence against election officials.
Threatening Communication Details
According to court documents, on or about Nov. 10, 2020, Nickels called the clerk of a local municipality and left a voicemail threatening to kill the local official.
In the message, he expressed dissatisfaction with the election process, accusing the official of fraud and stating that “ten million plus patriots” would surround the official.
The threatening message included explicit threats of violence, indicating that the official would “pay” and face severe consequences.
Law Enforcement Response and Legal Proceedings
U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison for the Eastern District of Michigan highlighted the gravity of the threats faced by public officials in the performance of their duties.
The guilty plea, according to Ison, sends a clear message that individuals engaging in such conduct would be held accountable.
The FBI Detroit Field Office is leading the investigation, and Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section is prosecuting the case.
Sentencing and Maximum Penalty
Nickels pleaded guilty to making a threatening interstate communication and is scheduled to be sentenced on July 9.
He faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
The sentence will be determined by a federal district court judge, taking into consideration the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case underscores the critical role of law enforcement in addressing threats against election workers and ensuring the integrity of the democratic process.
The guilty plea reflects the commitment of the Justice Department to hold individuals accountable for attempting to disrupt elections through intimidation and violence.
The ongoing efforts of the Election Threats Task Force, launched in June 2021, demonstrate a proactive approach in addressing threats against election workers nationwide.
Conclusion: Supporting Election Workers and Ensuring Justice
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco’s Election Threats Task Force continues to play a crucial role in addressing threats against election workers.
The collaborative efforts involving various entities within the Justice Department, the FBI, and interagency partners aim to protect election workers and ensure their ability to perform their duties without fear of intimidation.
The guilty plea in this case reinforces the message that threatening election officials will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable.
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