A man named Spencer Gear, 32, from Las Vegas has been accused of making threats to assault and kill federal officials, judges, and state employees in several states, including those involved in the prosecution of former President Donald J. Trump. He faces 10 counts of threatening a federal official and 12 counts of transmitting threats to injure, according to a federal indictment.
Mr. Gear pleaded not guilty to the charges in the U.S. District Court in Las Vegas and was taken into federal custody. The charges stem from a recorded telephone message on June 3, directed at a judge and a district attorney, referred to as A.B. and J.M. in the indictment, likely Alvin Bragg and Juan Merchan, the lead prosecutor and presiding judge in Mr. Trump’s hush-money trial in New York.
The message, left the Monday after Mr. Trump’s conviction on all 34 charges related to an illegal scheme to influence the 2016 election, raised concerns for Magistrate Judge Brenda Weksler. Mr. Trump’s defense team has requested that Justice Merchan overturn the verdict based on a U.S. Supreme Court decision granting him immunity from prosecution for actions taken to overturn the 2020 election.
The defense argues that this immunity invalidates some of the evidence presented in Manhattan, including testimony from former White House staff and social media posts made by Mr. Trump during his presidency. Justice Merchan has indicated that he will make a ruling in September.
This case highlights the serious consequences of making threats against public officials and the legal system. Threatening violence or harm towards those involved in legal proceedings is a criminal offense that can result in significant penalties.
It is crucial to respect the rule of law and allow the justice system to operate without interference or intimidation. Threats against judges, prosecutors, or any other public officials undermine the integrity of the legal process and erode public trust in the system.
Individuals who feel aggrieved or have concerns about legal proceedings should address them through appropriate channels and seek legal advice rather than resorting to threats or violence. Upholding the principles of justice and due process is essential for a functioning society where everyone is treated fairly and impartially under the law.
