A Massachusetts man has admitted guilt in a federal court in Boston for making threats to kill members of the Jewish community and bomb synagogues. John Reardon, aged 59 from Millis, pleaded guilty to charges including obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, transmitting threats in interstate commerce, and stalking using interstate facilities.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated, "This defendant’s threats to bomb synagogues and kill Jewish children stoked fear in the hearts of congregants at a time when Jews are already facing a disturbing increase in threats." He emphasized that no community should live in fear due to hate-fueled violence and assured that the Justice Department is committed to protecting individuals' rights to express their faith.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts commented on Reardon's conviction: “John Reardon now stands convicted of inflicting terror on the greater Boston Jewish community by threatening violence against fellow residents of Massachusetts solely because they are of their Jewish faith.”
Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen from the FBI Boston Field Office remarked on the immediate response following Reardon's threats: “When John Reardon threatened to kill members of the Jewish community and bomb places of worship, the FBI and our partners immediately mobilized."
The case stems from incidents on January 25th when Reardon left voicemails with violent threats at two synagogues in Attleboro and Sharon, Massachusetts. Following his arrest, it was discovered that he had contacted the Israeli Consulate in Boston multiple times with harassing or intimidating statements.
Reardon awaits sentencing where he faces significant penalties including potential prison time and fines. The FBI's Boston Field Office led the investigation with assistance from local law enforcement agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Torey B. Cummings is prosecuting this case.