Thomas Bitter, Threatening a Federal Officer, United States Virgin Islands 2016

St. Thomas, USVI – In a shocking display of disdain for authority, 36-year-old Thomas Bitter pleaded guilty to threatening a federal officer, a crime that will land him in prison for up to six years.

Bitter’s guilty plea was made in District Court on St. Thomas before visiting District Court Judge Juan R. Sanchez. This plea agreement stems from a series of threatening emails Bitter sent to a Judicial Security Inspector at the District Court of the Virgin Islands between May and June of 2016.

According to sources close to the investigation, Bitter’s actions were a blatant attempt to intimidate a federal judge in the Central District of California, who had previously admonished him for sending numerous threatening emails.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a thorough investigation into Bitter’s actions, gathering evidence that would ultimately lead to his guilty plea. Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter played a crucial role in prosecuting the case.

Under federal law, Bitter faces a maximum sentence of six years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled to take place on March 9, 2017.

The people of the Virgin Islands can rest a little easier knowing that justice will be served in this case. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.

Thomas Bitter’s actions are a stark reminder of the dangers of threatening public officials. His guilty plea serves as a warning to anyone who thinks they can engage in this type of behavior with impunity.

This case is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.

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