Jackson, Michigan Man Charged with Threats to Political Action Committee

DETROIT - A Jackson, Michigan man was arrested today and charged with one count of making a threatening interstate communication. The charge arises out of Pierce allegedly sending threatening e-mails to a political action committee (PAC) engaged in fundraising activities related to the November 5, 2024, election, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison.

Joining in the announcement was Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

According to court documents, on or about October 2, 2024, Christopher Pierce, 46, of Jackson, Michigan, allegedly sent two electronic communications containing threats to injure or kill individuals associated with the PAC. In apparent response to fundraising solicitation communications, Pierce communicated: "I guarantee I can find each and every one of your [expletive] organizees. And we will turn you [expletive] inside out. . . . Now you better stop or I promise you this is badly for all of you [expletive] and we won'tinvolve [sic] the law." In a second communication shortly thereafter, Pierce stated, "You will shut down your entire organization or it will be shut down for you. 90% of the members of [named organization]… are trained killers. . . . It paints targets onyour [sic] backs and the backs of your families. Your call centers have been located. Don't make these boys and girlsgo [sic] to work."

Pierce is charged with one count of making a threatening interstate communication. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison.

The investigation is being conducted by FBI.

This case is part of the Justice Department's Election Threats Task Force. Created by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the department's efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers - whether elected, appointed, or volunteer - are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys' Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the task force has begun.

To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.