MA Man Accused of Threatening Woman with Assault Rifle

BOSTON – Alden Welch Ruml, 26, of Massachusetts, is facing federal charges after allegedly emailing a graphic threat to a woman late last month. The February 28th message, detailed in a federal indictment, reportedly included obscene language and culminated in a specific threat: Ruml allegedly stated he’d be “happy” to see the woman’s face “canoed by an assault rifle.”

The victim’s identity remains confidential. Investigators confirmed the email originated from Ruml and crossed state lines, triggering the federal charge. The nature of Ruml’s relationship with the woman is currently unknown.

Prosecutors are charging Ruml with transmitting a threat across state lines, a crime carrying a potential five-year prison sentence and three years of supervised release. A $250,000 fine is also possible if convicted. The case is being led by U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley and the FBI’s Boston Division.

It’s important to note that these are allegations. Ruml is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Source: U.S. Department of Justice