CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – A Chattanooga native has been handed a 24-month prison sentence after making chilling threats against a federal lawmaker. Garry Lebron Hayes, 45, was sentenced by Judge Curtis L. Collier on September 10, 2025, for his ominous voicemails to a Member of Congress.
According to court documents, Hayes left a threatening message in July 2024, saying: "I’m gonna kill your ass b*tch." He also threatened another Congressman in January 2024, declaring: "I will slice your throat, mother f***er."
The defendant’s actions led to his conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 875(c), which pertains to the transmission of threatening communications across state lines. Hayes struck a plea agreement with the court, accepting responsibility for his criminal behavior.
During the sentencing hearing, the judge emphasized the need to protect society from individuals like Hayes who threaten elected officials. Assistant U.S. Attorney David P. Lewen Jr. represented the United States in this case, while U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III and FBI Special Agent Joseph Carrico announced the sentence.
Hayes will serve his prison term followed by one year of supervised release. The court’s decision to impose a 24-month sentence reflects the severity of the threats made against federal officials.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences faced by those who target public servants with violence and intimidation.
RELATED: Chattanooga Man to Serve 24 Months for Threatening Congress Member
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Key Facts
- State: Tennessee
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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