Amherst Man Sentenced to Prison for Threats Against Lawmakers

CONCORD – The gritty town of Amherst has been jolted by the federal sentencing of Ryder Winegar, a 34-year-old local, who was handed a 33-month prison sentence for making terrifying threats against members of Congress and a New Hampshire state representative.

The harrowing case began early on December 16, 2020, when Winegar left chilling voicemails at the offices of six U.S. Senators and Representatives in D.C. His messages were explicit, threatening to hang them if they didn’t support Donald Trump. Among his sinister remarks was a chilling directive: “Donald Trump is your president. If you don’t get behind him, we’re going to hang you until you die.”

Winegar’s threats were not limited to federal officials. He also sent a menacing email to a New Hampshire state representative, threatening to pull him from his bed and hang him. His brazen actions earned him additional charges.

Members of the U.S. Capitol Police tried to apprehend Winegar on December 20, but he fled to Brazil, leaving behind his family. He was ultimately taken into custody upon returning to the States on January 11, 2021.

In a statement, Acting U.S. Attorney John J. Farley emphasized that threats of violence have no place in political discourse. “This defendant’s graphic threats were a troubling attempt to intimidate lawmakers and a direct assault on our constitutional system,” he said. Winegar was also ordered to pay a $15,000 fine.

Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division, echoed Farley’s sentiments: “Threatening to attack and kill members of Congress is not protected speech; it’s a federal crime.” The case was investigated by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Capitol Police, the FBI, and Amherst Police Department.

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