JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A Somerset County man is facing federal prison time after admitting he threatened to assassinate the Vice President of the United States. William R. Dunbar, 23, of Berlin, Pennsylvania, entered a guilty plea in federal court today, according to Acting United States Attorney Soo C. Song.
The threat, made on September 8, 2017, occurred while Dunbar was on active military duty in Johnstown. Sources within the U.S. Secret Service indicate Dunbar specifically stated his intention to kill the Vice President, who was scheduled to arrive in the city on September 11, 2017. Three witnesses reportedly overheard the chilling declaration.
The Secret Service immediately launched an investigation, quickly identifying Dunbar as the source of the threat. Details of the investigation remain sealed, but sources confirm the agency acted swiftly to secure the Vice President’s safety prior to the scheduled visit. The timing of the threat, just days before the 9/11 anniversary, added another layer of concern for investigators.
United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson has scheduled Dunbar’s sentencing for April 12, 2018, at 1:30 p.m. He now faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or a combination of both. The final sentence will be determined based on the severity of the offense and any prior criminal history. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Haines is leading the prosecution.
While the Secret Service rarely comments on ongoing investigations involving threats against protectees, this case highlights the agency’s vigilance in safeguarding high-ranking officials. The incident underscores the potential for radicalized individuals, even those within the military, to pose a credible threat. Dunbar’s motive remains unclear, and investigators are reportedly exploring potential connections to extremist groups.
Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it moves toward sentencing. Dunbar’s guilty plea is a significant step, but questions remain about the circumstances surrounding the threat and the potential for similar incidents in the future. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the constant danger faced by those in positions of power and the dedication of the U.S. Secret Service in protecting them.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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