Massachusetts Man Receives Prison Sentence for Election Official Bomb Threat

In a decisive move, a Massachusetts man has been sentenced to three years and six months in prison for sending a bomb threat to an election official in the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) underscores its commitment to holding those using violence as a means of intimidation during elections accountable under the law.

DOJ’s Strong Warning: Accountability for Illegal Threats to Election Workers

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland issues a stern warning, emphasizing that individuals resorting to illegal threats of violence to intimidate election workers will be tracked down and held accountable.

The convicted individual, James W. Clark, sent a threatening communication to an Arizona election official, leading to a federal prison sentence.

The Threat and Its Aftermath: Details of the Bomb Threat Incident

Court documents reveal that Clark sent a threatening message through the Arizona Secretary of State’s website, demanding the official’s resignation under the threat of an explosive device.

Subsequent online searches indicated concerning behavior, including inquiries about the official’s personal information and unrelated incidents like the Boston Marathon bombing.

In response to Clark’s message, law enforcement conducted partial evacuations, bomb sweeps, and searches of the official’s residence and car.

Prosecution’s Perspective: Ensuring Safety for Public Servants

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, condemns the act, highlighting the impact on public servants ensuring free and fair elections.

The Criminal Division vows to aggressively investigate and prosecute those targeting election officials with threats of violence.

DOJ’s Ongoing Efforts: Litigation, Compliance, and Election Threats Task Force

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona reaffirms its commitment to prosecuting threats against public servants.

Clark, who pleaded guilty in August 2023, faced one count of making a threatening interstate communication.

The case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force, established to address threats against election workers and ensure their ability to perform duties without fear.

Call to Action: Reporting Threats and Violence

The DOJ encourages the public to report suspected threats or violent acts against election workers.

Citizens can contact their local FBI office or utilize the 1-800-CALL-FBI hotline.

Complaints submitted will be thoroughly reviewed by the Election Threats Task Force, with appropriate investigations and responses. Immediate danger or risk of harm should be reported to 911 or local police.