In a recent federal trial, a jury has found Brian Melvin Brandenburg guilty of multiple counts of sending email threats to bomb buildings across the United States. The trial, presided over by United States District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi, revealed that Brandenburg sent threatening emails to various recipients, including a courthouse, a state capitol, and multiple educational institutions. The evidence presented at trial showcased Brandenburg’s intent to gain attention through these threats. The defendant, who is currently detained, will face sentencing on November 9, 2023. If convicted, he could face significant prison time according to the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. The investigation leading to this conviction was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Provo Police Department, and the University of Utah Police Department.
Background Information
Summary of the case
In the case of United States v. Brian Melvin Brandenburg, a federal jury has found the defendant guilty of sending e-mail threats to bomb buildings in the State of Utah and across the United States. The defendant, Brian Melvin Brandenburg, is a 64-year-old resident of Oahu and a former resident of Utah.
Defendant’s name and age
The defendant in this case is Brian Melvin Brandenburg, who is 64 years old.
Charges against the defendant
Brian Melvin Brandenburg is facing seven counts of sending e-mail threats to bomb buildings, both in the State of Utah and across the United States.
Trial details
The trial took place before United States District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi. The jury found Brian Melvin Brandenburg guilty on all seven counts.
Judge’s order for detention and sentencing date
Judge Kobayashi ordered the defendant to remain in custody pending his sentencing, which is scheduled to take place on November 9, 2023.
Maximum sentences for each count
Count 1 carries a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, while Counts 2 to 7 each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment.
Investigating agencies
The investigation into the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Provo Police Department, and the University of Utah Police Department.
Prosecutors of the case
Assistant U.S. Attorneys KeAupuni Akina and Darren W.K. Ching prosecuted the case against Brian Melvin Brandenburg.
Specific Threats Sent by the Defendant
Sending e-mail threats to bomb buildings in Utah and across the US
Brian Melvin Brandenburg sent numerous e-mail threats to bomb buildings, targeting locations in Utah as well as across the United States.
Victims targeted by the defendant
Among the victims targeted by the defendant were individuals identified as Victim 1 and Victim 2 in the indictment, who were State of Utah Court employees involved in the defendant’s pending divorce case. The threats were specifically directed towards the 3rd District Courthouse in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Details of the threats sent
According to the evidence presented at trial, Brian Melvin Brandenburg sent e-mails threatening to bomb various locations, including the Utah State Capitol, the Mayor’s Office in Salt Lake City, every Ivy League School, the United States Courthouse in San Diego, and Hall Labs and the University of Utah Center for Medical Innovation in Utah.
Defendant’s Motive
Defendant’s statement to the FBI
During the investigation, Brian Melvin Brandenburg told the FBI that he wanted to get their attention. This statement provides insight into the defendant’s motive behind sending the e-mail threats.
Desire to get attention
Based on the defendant’s statement to the FBI, it appears that his motive for sending the e-mail threats was a desire to gain attention.
Potential Sentences
Maximum sentences for each count
Count 1 carries a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, while Counts 2 to 7 each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment.
Factors determining the actual sentences
The actual sentences that Brian Melvin Brandenburg will receive will be determined based on various factors, including the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Investigation Details
Agencies involved in the investigation
The investigation into the case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Provo Police Department, and the University of Utah Police Department.
In-depth investigation details
Further details regarding the in-depth investigation conducted by the FBI, Provo Police Department, and the University of Utah Police Department have not been disclosed.
Prosecution Details
Names of prosecuting attorneys
Assistant U.S. Attorneys KeAupuni Akina and Darren W.K. Ching served as the prosecuting attorneys in the case against Brian Melvin Brandenburg.
Legal strategies used in the case
The specific legal strategies used by the prosecution during the trial have not been detailed.
Evidence presented at trial
During the trial, evidence was presented to support the charges against Brian Melvin Brandenburg. This evidence likely included the e-mails sent by the defendant, witness testimonies, and any other relevant documentation.
Contact Information
Contact details for media inquiries
For media inquiries regarding the case of United States v. Brian Melvin Brandenburg, please contact Elliot Enoki at Elliot.Enoki@usdoj.gov.
Related Content
Other press releases relating to the case
There are currently no other press releases relating to the case of United States v. Brian Melvin Brandenburg.
Office Information
Address and contact details of the District of Hawaii USAO office
District of Hawaii USAO Office 300 Ala Moana Blvd., #6-100 Honolulu, HI 96850
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