Nevada Man Arrested for Threatening Government Officials

A 32-year-old Nevada man, Spencer Gear, has been arrested following allegations that he threatened multiple government officials, including Judge Juan Merchan and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who were involved in former President Donald Trump's hush money trial. An indictment unsealed in Las Vegas details that Gear made threatening phone calls and sent emails to a total of 11 officials, including eight federal and three state employees, where he allegedly expressed intentions to assault and murder them. The indictment lists 22 counts against Gear, including threatening a federal official and transmitting threats to injure. During one of the phone calls, he specifically threatened to kill Bragg and Merchan. Gear has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized the importance of protecting public servants, stating that they must be able to perform their duties without fear for their safety. He affirmed the Justice Department's commitment to addressing threats against officials. Gear has been remanded into custody, with his trial set to commence on September 24. If found guilty, he faces the possibility of decades in prison. Responses from officials involved have been limited, with Bragg's office declining to comment and the New York State Unified Court System unavailable for immediate remarks. The FBI's National Security Branch, represented by Robert Wells, reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards threats against government officials, highlighting the agency's dedication to investigating and holding accountable those who create a climate of fear through such actions.