A New York citizen was arrested and charged after threatening to kill Representative John Katko and his family if the congressman did not support net neutrality, The Hill writes.
Patrick D. Angelo, 28, of Syracuse, N.Y., allegedly left a voicemail for Katko on October 19 at his Washington, D.C. office urging Katko to support net neutrality as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) considered rolling back the Obama-era measures.
“Listen Mr. Katko, if you support net neutrality, I will support you. But if you don’t support net neutrality, I will find you and your family and I will kill…you…all. Do you understand?” Angelo said, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office in the Western District of New York.
“Net neutrality is more important than the defense of the United States. Net neutrality is more important than free speech. Net neutrality is more important than health care. Net neutrality is literally the basis of the new society,” Angelo continued.
“All threats are reported to the U.S. Capitol Police in order to ensure the safety of Rep. Katko, his family, and staff. The Congressman and his family appreciate the diligent work of our local, state and federal law enforcement in monitoring these threats and taking appropriate action,” said Erin O’Connor, the congressman’s deputy chief of staff.
Angelo was charged with interstate communication of a threat and threatening a federal official, the U.S. Attorney’s office said. The charges carry a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both, The Hill notes.
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