
The Justice Department charges four men for threatening election workers as tensions rise ahead of the November 5 election.
At a Glance
- Four men face charges for making threats against election workers in multiple states
- The Election Threats Task Force, established in 2021, is handling these cases
- Charges include interstate threats and illegal firearm possession
- The Task Force has secured nine convictions out of 14 cases charged
- Officials emphasize the importance of protecting election workers for democratic integrity
Justice Department Takes Action Against Election Threats
The U.S. Justice Department has charged four men with threatening election workers, highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect the integrity of the electoral process. Teak Brockbank from Colorado, Richard Kantwill from Florida, John Pollard from Philadelphia, and Brian Ogstad from Alabama face serious allegations related to intimidating election officials across multiple states.
Brockbank’s case is particularly notable. He allegedly made detailed death threats on social media platforms like Gab and Rumble in 2021 and 2022. The Colorado man is also accused of illegally possessing firearms despite a prior felony conviction. If convicted, Brockbank could face up to five years in prison for transmitting interstate threats.
During yesterday’s Election Threats Task Force meeting, AG Garland noted DOJ’s accelerated #ElectionSecurity efforts to combat the increase in threats against election workers, officials, and volunteers. pic.twitter.com/YfIGWxuZJ2
— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) May 14, 2024
Task Force’s Ongoing Efforts
The Election Threats Task Force, established in June 2021 under Attorney General Merrick Garland’s oversight, is spearheading these cases. The Task Force was created in response to the increasing threats against election workers following the 2020 election. To date, it has charged 14 cases and secured nine convictions, demonstrating its commitment to protecting those who administer U.S. elections.
“As we approach Election Day, the Justice Department’s warning remains clear: Anyone who illegally threatens an election worker, official or volunteer will face the consequences.” – Attorney General Merrick Garland
The Task Force’s work extends beyond these four cases. An Iowa man was recently sentenced to two and a half years for threatening communications to Arizona officials. In Texas, one man pleaded guilty to making graphic threats against Georgia officials and law enforcement, while another was sentenced to three and a half years for threats against Maricopa County officials.
Impact on Election Workers
The rise in threats has had a significant impact on election workers across the country. Many have quit their positions due to fear and anxiety, potentially compromising the smooth functioning of the electoral process. The Justice Department emphasizes that these threats not only endanger individuals but also undermine the democratic process itself.
“Ms. Barton is one of thousands of election workers who have received threats since the 2020 election, a trend fueled by former President Donald J. Trump’s continued baseless assertions about election fraud and what experts say is a broader distrust of institutions and authority.” – Eileen Sullivan
As the November 5 election approaches, with polls showing a close race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, the Justice Department’s actions send a clear message about the seriousness of these threats. The department, in collaboration with the FBI and other agencies, remains committed to investigating and prosecuting those who threaten election personnel, ensuring the safety and integrity of the democratic process.
Sources:
- Man charged in threats to kill election workers in Colorado and Arizona
- DOJ touts cases against 4 men for threats against election officials
- Election Workers Face Flood of Threats, but Charges Are Few