BOSTON, MA – In a disturbing display of malice, a Westfield woman has been indicted for allegedly making a hoax bomb threat against Boston Children’s Hospital, a revered institution that provides critical healthcare services to the community.
Catherine Leavy, 37, was indicted on one count of making a false bomb threat and one count of intentionally conveying false or misleading information that a bomb was on its way to Boston Children’s Hospital. The charges stem from a telephonic bomb threat received by the hospital on August 30, 2022, which resulted in a lockdown and a thorough search by the bomb squad.
According to court documents, the phone number used to make the threat was subscribed in Leavy’s name and cell tower data indicated the phone was nearby her residence at the time the bomb threat was made. During a search of her residence on September 15, 2022, the phone allegedly used to make the threat was recovered.
The charge of making a false bomb threat provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of intentionally conveying false or misleading information provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Leavy was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint on September 15, 2022, with one count of explosive materials – willfully making a false bomb threat. She will appear in federal court at a later date.
The hospital, which is home to the Gender Multispecialty Service (GeMS) program, provides a wide range of healthcare services, including care for gender-diverse and transgender adolescents. The hoax bomb threat caused significant disruptions and anxiety for patients, families, and staff.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nadine Pellegrini and Jared C. Dolan, Chief and Deputy Chief of U.S. Attorney Rachael S. Rollins’ National Security Unit, respectively. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division, and the Boston Police Department provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. Leavy is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Defendant/Respondent: Catherine Leavy
Criminal Charges: Making a false bomb threat and intentionally conveying false or misleading information
City and State: Westfield, Massachusetts
Exact Date: August 30, 2022
Sentence or Outcome: Currently pending
Dollar Amounts: $250,000 (fine)
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Key Facts
- State: Massachusetts
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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