Oregon Stalker Balda Gets 39-Month Sentence for Cyberharassment

TUCSON, Ariz. – A relentless cyberharasser was handed a severe sentence today as Brian Thomas Balda, 52, of Oregon, was sentenced to 39 months in prison for his campaign of terror against a former United States government official.

Balda’s harassment, which spanned from June 2023 to June 2024, culminated with him traveling across state lines to confront his victim. He was caught red-handed near the victim’s home, where law enforcement discovered four knives, binoculars, and a replica handgun in his car. Balda was sentenced by United States District Judge Angela M. Martinez to serve his sentence followed by 36 months of supervised release.

The federal jury found Balda guilty on June 13, 2025, following a trial that lasted just four days. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Phoenix Division in Tucson, along with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the University of Arizona Police Department, were instrumental in the investigation into this chilling case.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, Balda was found guilty of one count of Cyberstalking and one count of Interstate Stalking. This conviction sends a clear message that cyberharassment and interstate stalking will not be tolerated.

The case number is CR-24-1182-TUC-AMM, and it serves as a stark reminder of the impact cybercrimes can have on individuals and their communities. For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/. Stay informed by following the office on Twitter @USAO_AZ.

CASE NUMBER: CR-24-1182-TUC-AMM
RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-145_Balda