Threats of Violence Sent to Elected Officials Spur Arrest
Aaditya Chand, a 22-year-old Palo Alto man, was arrested today for sending threats of violence to a United States Congresswoman and a Florida State Representative. The defendant allegedly used his Instagram account to send direct messages to the officials, which were received by their staff in Washington, D.C. and Florida.
According to the criminal complaint unsealed earlier today, on Feb. 15, 2024, Chand allegedly used his Instagram account to send direct messages to a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, identified in the complaint as "Victim 1." The messages stated, "I’m gonna shoot up ur office tomorrow u Palestinian scum," and "Get ready." The complaint alleges that the messages were received by Victim 1’s staff in Washington, D.C.
In addition, Chand allegedly used his Instagram account to send another direct message over Instagram to a Florida State Representative, identified in the complaint as Victim 2. Federal agents allegedly viewed Chand’s Instagram messages to the Florida representative during an interview of the defendant. The threatening Instagram message allegedly states, "I’m gonna bring a gun to ur office tomorrow and shoot u and ur staff."
The complaint charges Chand with a felony, transmitting in interstate or foreign commerce a communication containing a threat to injure a person, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). If convicted, Chand faces a maximum statutory sentence of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment.
Aaditya Chand is scheduled to make his initial federal court appearance later today before United States Magistrate Judge Susan van Keulen. The investigation was carried out by the United States Capitol Police, with the assistance of United States Attorney Ismail Ramsey and Special Assistant United States Attorney Johnny James.
The announcement was made jointly by U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey and United States Capitol Police Chief of Police J. Thomas Manger. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Johnny James, with assistance from Susan Kreider.
Aaditya Chand’s arrest serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting elected officials from threats of violence. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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Key Facts
- State: California
- Category: Public Corruption|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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