Joshua Keziah Sentenced for Threatening a Judge, Lancaster PA, 2023

SCRANTON — In a stunning display of courtroom justice, 28-year-old Joshua Keziah, an inmate serving time at the State Correctional Institution in Frackville, Pennsylvania, was today sentenced by United States District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion to 14 months’ imprisonment for sending a chilling letter of threat to President Judge Joseph Mandespacher of Lancaster County.

According to United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler, Keziah’s transgression came to light in August 2016 when he pleaded guilty to the crime. The defendant now faces additional penalties as part of his sentence, including two years of post-release supervision, during which he is required to spend 90 days in a halfway house.

The investigation into this brazen act was jointly conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Lancaster County Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gotlob led the prosecution of the case, ensuring that justice was served for the judge who received this harrowing missive.

Keziah’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences that follow when individuals cross the line into sending threatening communications. The sentence handed down by Judge Mannion reflects the severity of such crimes and underscores the commitment to protecting public officials and their safety.

United States Attorney Brandler emphasized the importance of swift and decisive action against those who attempt to intimidate or threaten members of the judiciary, stating, “The rule of law must be upheld, and anyone who seeks to undermine the justice system will face the full weight of the federal government’s legal response.”

This case has been closely followed by local and national media outlets alike, as it highlights the ongoing threat posed by individuals who engage in criminal behavior aimed at intimidating public officials. The sentence imposed today sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated.