He’s expected to be sentenced on July 27th.
Baltimore, Md (KM) A Frederick man pleaded guilty on Tuesday to a federal charge of threats to a major presidential and vice presidential candidate, specifically former Vice President Joe Biden, and then-US Senator Kamela Harris. James Dale Reed, 42, entered the plea before US District Court Judge Ellen L. Hollander who scheduled sentencing for July 27th at 4:00 PM.
The US Attorneys’ Office says on October 4th, 2020, in the early morning hours, Reed left a letter on a doorstep of a home in Frederick, threatening both Biden and Harris with physical harm. He also threatened the resident who had Biden and Harris signs in the yard. “If you are Biden/Harris supporter, you will be targeted. We have a list of homes and addresses by your election signs. We are the ones with those scary guns. We are the ones your children have nightmares about,” according to the letter.
Reed’s likeness was caught on a door camera which led authorities to place charges against him.
As part of their investigation, federal authorities obtained an Extreme Risk Protection Order to seize Reed’s firearms based on misdemeanor charges of voter intimidation and threats of mass violence, along with a search warrant for the clothing Reed was wearing when he was spotted on the door camera. A search of Reed’s home netted numerous firearms, military equipment, including military-issue uniforms, helmets, two grenades, blast caps, a supply of maps, and books about military strategy and history. Also confiscated were a Smith and Wesson 9VE handgun, a JC Higgins 20-12 Gauge rifle and other firearms, according to the US Attorney’s Office.
As part of his plea agreement, Reed agreed to waive his interest in firearms and ammunition.
“Making threats against candidates and fellow citizens for their political beliefs undermines our democracy and will not be tolerated,” says Acting US Attorney for Maryland Jonathan Lenzner, in a statement. “This case reflects our commitment to holding accountable anyone who seeks to intimidate, harass or dissuade Americans from exercising their right to vote and to peacefully support the candidate of their choice.”
By Kevin McManus