PITTSBURGH – A chilling act of online harassment has landed a New Jersey man behind bars. William Kaetz, age 56, pleaded guilty to making restricted information publicly available, a charge that could have far-reaching consequences for the targeted individual.
According to court documents, on October 18, 2020, Kaetz publicly posted the home address of a United States District Court Judge to the social media sites Facebook and Twitter. The posting was done with the intent to threaten or intimidate, or with the knowledge that others would use the information to do the same.
The judge, who was not named in the documents, was put in a potentially life-threatening situation. The posting of the judge’s home address could have led to unwanted visitors, harassment, or even physical harm.
Kaetz’s actions have sparked a heated debate about online safety and the consequences of posting sensitive information. As social media continues to play an increasingly large role in our lives, it’s essential to remember the importance of respecting others’ privacy and security.
On Wednesday, United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan sentenced Kaetz to a term of imprisonment of 16 months, with three years’ supervised release and a fine of $5000. The sentence reflects the severity of Kaetz’s actions and serves as a warning to others who may consider similar behavior.
Assistant United States Attorneys Tonya Sulia Goodman and Cindy K. Chung prosecuted the case on behalf of the government, working tirelessly to ensure that justice was served. Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Marshals Service for their work in investigating and bringing Kaetz to justice.
Kaetz’s case serves as a reminder that the consequences of our actions online can be severe and long-lasting. As we navigate the complex world of social media, it’s crucial to prioritize respect, empathy, and understanding towards others.
The outcome of this case is a testament to the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, even in the online realm. As we move forward, it’s essential to continue the conversation about online safety and the need for responsible behavior.
Defendant Name: William Kaetz
Criminal Charges: Making restricted information publicly available
City and State: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Exact Date: October 18, 2020 (crime date)
Sentence or Outcome: 16 months in prison, three years’ supervised release, and a fine of $5000
Dollar Amounts: $5000
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Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: Cybercrime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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