A Colorado man, Teak Brockbank, has been arrested and is set to make his initial appearance at the federal courthouse in Durango, Colorado, today on federal charges related to a series of online threats he made towards election officials in Colorado and Arizona, a Colorado state judge, and federal law enforcement agents. The arrest was made on Friday in Cortez, where Brockbank resides.

According to the Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, Brockbank is accused of making detailed death threats against election officials, judges, and law enforcement officers. Garland emphasized that such violent threats against public servants pose a danger to democracy and that the Justice Department will ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, who heads the Justice Department's Criminal Division, echoed Garland's sentiments, stating that public servants must be able to perform their duties without fear. Argentieri further emphasized that the Criminal Division will relentlessly investigate and prosecute individuals who target public officials with threats of violence.

Court documents reveal that Brockbank allegedly used social media platforms to post messages threatening election officials in both Colorado and Arizona between September 2021 and August 2022. One such message on August 4, 2022, allegedly stated that once certain individuals were "put to death," others would "melt like snowflakes." Brockbank also allegedly threatened to "put a bullet" in the head of a Colorado state judge, claiming it to be a duty imposed by his family's commitment to the country's freedom. Additionally, he is accused of threatening federal law enforcement agents by stating that he would shoot them without warning if they entered his property.

Brockbank has been charged with transmitting interstate threats, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison if convicted. The FBI Denver Field Office is leading the investigation of the case. Trial Attorney Jonathan E. Jacobson of the Criminal Division's Public Integrity Section, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Cyrus Y. Chung for the District of Colorado, are spearheading the prosecution.

This case is part of the Justice Department's Election Threats Task Force, which aims to address threats and acts of violence against election workers. The task force, announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, collaborates with the election community and state and local law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of election workers.

As the trial progresses, the Department of Justice, under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, will continue to prioritize efforts to combat threats and violence directed towards election workers. The task force consists of various entities within the Justice Department, such as the Civil Rights Division, the National Security Division, and the FBI, along with key interagency partners like the Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Individuals who have information regarding threats or violent acts related to elections are encouraged to report them to their local FBI office or call the FBI directly at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324). Reports submitted will be thoroughly reviewed by the task force, and appropriate investigations or responses will be initiated. In cases where there is immediate danger or risk of harm, individuals are advised to contact 911 or their local police immediately.

The arrest and charges against Teak Brockbank serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting those who serve the public and maintaining the integrity of the democratic process. The Justice Department remains committed to safeguarding election workers and ensuring that they can carry out their responsibilities without fear of violence or intimidation.

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