Threats of Violence Land Lexington Man Behind Bars
A Lexington man has been sentenced to 42 months in prison for sending threatening emails to a Kentucky Commonwealth Attorney, according to federal authorities.
Christopher Rhodes, 41, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom for interstate communication of a threat, a federal crime.
According to court documents, Rhodes sent a series of emails to Jackie Steele, the Commonwealth Attorney for Laurel and Knox Counties, over the course of multiple weeks. The emails expressed Rhodes’ anger towards Steele and made reference to his family, claiming Steele should fear for their safety.
The emails were sent via Rhodes’ Google account on May 22, 2025. Rhodes’ messages included a veiled threat, stating that Steele needed curtains in his residence, seemingly referencing the safety of Steele’s family.
Under federal law, Rhodes must serve 85 percent of his 42-month prison sentence. Upon his release, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years.
The investigation into Rhodes’ actions was led by the FBI, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Parman. First Assistant United States Attorney Paul McCaffrey and Olivia Olson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the sentencing.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting public officials and the consequences of making threats against them.
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Key Facts
- State: Kentucky
- Category: Public Corruption|Violent Crime|Cybercrime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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