Related Federal Cases
Threats of Violence Carry Stiff Penalties
A San Antonio man is facing the consequences of making credible threats against a mass populated event in Florida. Alejandro Richard Velasquez Gomez, 20, received a 60-month prison sentence for posting a message on his public social media profile threatening a ‘day of retribution’ at the Turning Point USA-hosted conference Student Action Summit.
The U.S. Secret Service and Tampa Police Department were notified of the threat, which led to Tampa PD obtaining a warrant for Velasquez Gomez’s arrest. He pleaded guilty May 16, 2023, to the federal charge of interstate threatening communication.
In addition to targeting the SAS conference, Velasquez stalked and harassed a young woman for many months prior, continuing to do so even in pre-trial detention. Velasquez also attempted to obstruct the FBI’s investigation, using a group of minor girls to help him by deleting information from his online accounts and contacting witnesses to hide evidence and influence testimony.
“This man used social media to broadcast the message that he intended to travel across the country and carry out a violent act at an event catering to young political activists,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “Fortunately, his post was reported to officials who intervened, and this case can serve as a reminder to everyone that, at all levels of law enforcement, we take threats of violence very seriously. Those who violate these laws risk prosecution and imprisonment.”
“American citizens deserve to be able to gather without worrying about threats of violence,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp for the FBI San Antonio Field Office. “We’re grateful for the people who reported his threats to authorities and encourage others to contact the authorities if they see similar threats.”
The FBI investigated the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Stephenson prosecuting the case. Velasquez’s actions serve as a stark reminder that threats of violence will be taken seriously and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza emphasized the importance of public cooperation in preventing violent crimes. “We urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities,” he said.
As Velasquez begins his 60-month prison sentence, the community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that justice has been served. But the case also serves as a reminder that threats of violence can have severe consequences.
Key Facts
- State: Texas
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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