Authorities have charged a Bedford County man with making terroristic threats against Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Blayk Bridges, 25, of Hyndman, is in the Bedford County Jail. A Maryland man forwarded an email to Pennsylvania State Police, who claimed the email was from Bridges. The email subject stated, "I'm going after the Governor of Pennsylvania," and in it, the email message allegedly from Bridges said he was going to assault the governor. Other messages from Bridges also showed aggression toward Shapiro.

Terroristic threats often arise in cases of domestic violence. Pennsylvania law takes these charges very seriously. If someone accuses you of making terroristic threats, police may charge you with a first-degree misdemeanor. If convicted, you face fines of up to $10,000 and up to 5 years in jail. If someone accuses you of making terroristic threats against them, you must take the accusation seriously and quickly retain legal representation to ensure you build a strong case in your defense. Contact the LLF's Criminal Defense Team today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form, and let us work to get the best possible outcome for you.

What Are Terroristic Threats in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law defines terroristic threats as communicating "either directly or indirectly, a threat to commit any crime of violence with intent to terrorize another." The word "terrorize" is an important distinction to these charges. To terrorize is to cause another person feelings of intense fear or panic. So, it's not the words you use that can get you in trouble; it's whether you intended for your words to evoke terror. Terroristic threats not only include verbal communication but also written or even physical actions, such as pointing a gun at someone.

In Pennsylvania, if you're in a dispute with a partner, you won't be charged with domestic violence as a crime, per se. But you may be charged with making terroristic threats. And if your threats are an act of domestic violence, law enforcement may arrest you if they feel it's necessary to protect the accuser. You are also more likely to be hit with a Protection from Abuse Order (PFA).

How LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team Can Build a Strong Defense for You

If someone accuses you of making terroristic threats, it's important that you retain the services of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. The Criminal Defense Team at LLF Law Firm has years of experience representing people accused of making terroristic threats. We can work with you to challenge charges of terroristic threats, negotiate for dismissal of any charges and/or reduced penalties, and protect your rights. Contact the LLF Law Firm today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form, and let our Criminal Defense Team begin building a strong defense in your case.