A Georgia poll worker has been taken into custody following allegations of sending a threatening letter to election officials. Nicholas Wimbish, 25, from Milledgeville, Georgia, was serving at the Jones County Elections Office on October 16 when he reportedly had a verbal confrontation with a voter. Later that day, he conducted online searches to see what information about him was publicly accessible. The next day, he allegedly sent a letter to the Jones County Elections Superintendent.
The criminal complaint details that the letter was designed to appear as if it originated from a voter and included statements accusing Wimbish of "conspiring votes" and distracting voters. It contained threats indicating that Wimbish and others should "look over their shoulder" and warned of violent consequences if they resisted. Additionally, the letter mentioned planting an explosive device at the voting location.
Wimbish faces charges including mailing a bomb threat and making false statements to federal authorities. If found guilty, he could face up to 25 years in prison.
The announcement came from Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri and U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary for the Middle District of Georgia.
The FBI Atlanta Field Office is leading the investigation while Trial Attorney Jacob R. Steiner and Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. Keyes are handling prosecution duties.
This incident is part of ongoing efforts by the Justice Department's Election Threats Task Force established in June 2021 by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. The task force focuses on addressing threats against election workers nationwide in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
For further information on combating threats against election personnel or reporting suspected incidents, individuals can contact local FBI offices or file complaints through designated channels.
It is important to note that all individuals charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.