In a recent case involving social media threats, Lindsey Kinney, a man from Kaneohe, has been sentenced to 37 months in prison by Chief United States District Judge Derrick K. Watson. Kinney was found guilty of posting two threats on Instagram to kill others, resulting in his imprisonment and three years of supervised release. The evidence presented during the trial showed that Kinney targeted specific individuals, including government officials, escalating the severity of the case. This prosecution serves as a stern message that engaging in threatening behavior on social media platforms carries significant criminal consequences, as stated by United States Attorney Clare E. Connors. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation that led to Kinney’s conviction, emphasizing the critical role law enforcement plays in combatting online crimes.
Title
Kaneohe Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Prison for Posting Threats to Kill Others on Social Media
Overview
Background Information
In recent years, the rise of social media has brought with it new challenges in terms of online threats and harassment. The internet provides individuals with a platform to express their thoughts and opinions, but it also enables certain individuals to engage in harmful behavior. This article delves into a specific case involving Lindsey Kinney, a resident of Kaneohe, who has been sentenced to 37 months in prison for posting threats to kill others on social media.
Summary of the Case
Lindsey Kinney was found guilty by a federal trial jury on February 8, 2023, for posting two threats to kill others on Instagram. The evidence presented at trial revealed that Kinney posted threats to cut off the heads of individuals identified as Victims 1, 2, and 3. Additionally, Kinney publicly posted a video in which he and a second unseen person made threats to kill Victim 4 and Victim 5, both government officials, and to injure Victim 4’s security staff.
Importance of the Case
This case carries significant weight in terms of addressing the consequences of online threats and the need to hold individuals accountable for their actions on social media platforms. With the increasing prevalence of online harassment, it is crucial to send a message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that it can lead to serious criminal consequences.
Case Details
Defendant’s Identity
The defendant in this case is Lindsey Kinney, a 44-year-old resident of Kaneohe, Hawaii.
Date of Sentencing
Lindsey Kinney was sentenced on [date of sentencing] by Chief United States District Judge Derrick K. Watson.
Duration of Imprisonment
Kinney has been sentenced to 37 months of imprisonment.
Terms of Supervised Release
Following his 37-month imprisonment, Kinney will also face three years of supervised release.
Trial and Verdict
Date of Trial
The trial took place on February 8, 2023, where a federal trial jury found Lindsey Kinney guilty of posting threats to kill others on Instagram.
Jury Verdict
The federal trial jury found Lindsey Kinney guilty of the charges brought against him.
Evidence Presented
During the trial, evidence was presented that showcased Kinney’s posts on Instagram, where he made threats to cut off the heads of multiple individuals. Additionally, a video recording was presented, in which Kinney and an unidentified person made threats to kill government officials, specifically Victim 4 and Victim 5, and to harm Victim 4’s security staff.
Description of Threats
Threats on Instagram
Lindsey Kinney made threatening posts on his Instagram account, through which he expressed his intentions to harm and kill specific individuals.
Targets Identified in the Indictment
The indictment against Kinney identified Victims 1, 2, and 3 as the intended targets in the first threat. In the second threat, Victims 4 and 5, who were government officials, were targeted.
Motivation for Threats
The motivation for Kinney’s threats is not explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, it is stated that Victim 1 believed that Kinney targeted Victims 1 and 2 due to Victim 1’s official capacity as a government official, along with recent encounters with another individual.
Response to Threats
Increased Vigilance of Victims 1 and 4
After being made aware of the threatening posts, Victim 1 and Victim 4’s security staff increased their vigilance. They familiarized themselves with Kinney’s appearance and closely scrutinized individuals who approached Victim 1 and Victim 4 to ensure Kinney did not pose a threat.
Presence of Armed Personnel at Victim 5’s Office
To ensure the safety of Victim 5 and his staff, armed personnel were present at Victim 5’s office during working hours. This precautionary measure was implemented until Kinney’s arrest operation began.
Message from the United States Attorney
Importance of Social Media Consequences
The United States Attorney, Clare E. Connors, highlights the significance of this case in dealing with the consequences of conduct on social media platforms. Posting threats to kill specific targets on platforms like Instagram can have serious criminal consequences.
Criminalization of Terrorizing Behavior
The prosecution and subsequent sentencing of Lindsey Kinney emphasize the criminalization of terrorizing behavior, especially when it occurs through social media channels. The U.S. Attorney’s Office and federal law enforcement agencies make it clear that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Investigating Agency
Federal Bureau of Investigation
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted the investigation that led to the arrest and subsequent conviction of Lindsey Kinney.
Prosecution
Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan
Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan prosecuted the case against Lindsey Kinney.
Contact Information
Elliot Enoki
For further information or inquiries related to this case, please contact Elliot Enoki at Elliot.Enoki@usdoj.gov.
In conclusion, the case of Lindsey Kinney, a Kaneohe man who posted threats to kill others on social media, underscores the seriousness of online threats and the need for accountability within the digital realm. The sentencing of Kinney to 37 months in prison and the subsequent three years of supervised release sends a clear message that criminal behavior expressed through social media platforms will not be tolerated by federal law enforcement. Through the diligent efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the prosecution led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan, this case serves as a reminder that the consequences of such behavior can be severe. It also highlights the importance of increased vigilance and security measures to protect potential targets of threats made on social media.