A Tampa man faces up to 10 years in federal prison after being indicted for making a bomb threat to a Congressional office.
According to court documents, Rigoberto Albizar Martinez, 56, allegedly called the District Office of a Member of the United States House of Representatives on May 1, 2024, and threatened to place a bomb in the Congressional member’s Tampa office.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
The case was investigated by the United States Capitol Police – Threat Assessment Section. It will be prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Wheeler III.
Martinez is charged with making a telephonic threat to damage and destroy a building with an explosive, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 844(e).
Defendant: Rigoberto Albizar Martinez
Charge: Making a telephonic threat to damage and destroy a building with an explosive
City: Tampa, FL
State: Florida
Date: May 1, 2024
Outcome: Currently indicted, awaiting trial
Prison Time: Up to 10 years
Prosecutor: Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Wheeler III
Investigator: United States Capitol Police – Threat Assessment Section
If convicted, Martinez could face a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
The case is a reminder of the importance of taking threats of violence seriously and the consequences that come with making such threats.
Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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