Dennis John Hernandez, also known as "DJ Hernandez" and "Jonathan Hernandez," has been sentenced to approximately 18 months in prison, time already served, followed by three years of supervised release. The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford. Hernandez, a 38-year-old from Bristol, faced charges for making interstate threats.
Court documents reveal that on July 6 and 7, 2023, Hernandez used Facebook Messenger to communicate threats about carrying out a shooting at the University of Connecticut (UConn). He stated, “I would recommend remaining away from there because when I go I’m taking down everything And don’t give a f--- who gets caught in the crossfire. I’ve died for years now and now it’s others people turn. I’m prepared to give my life. So if I don’t get to see you on the outside know I love you always Not all shootings are bad I’m realizing. Some are necessary for change to happen.” His vehicle was reportedly seen on UConn's campus on July 7.
Further incidents occurred on July 18 and 19, when Hernandez made several Facebook posts threatening harm or death to three individuals living out of state, including a state court judge. On July 19, he texted one victim saying: “We’re taking lives if s--- isn’t paid up. It’s been years in planning just taking notes, names and locations. They talked their way into this and it’s almost point game. I know we don’t play in my family. If we have to take lives or buildings we will. So just letting you know so you can be prepared for a media circus one way or another.”
Hernandez has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on July 19, 2023. He pleaded guilty on December 18, 2024, to transmitting interstate communications containing a threat to injure.
During his supervised release period, Hernandez is required to continue mental health and substance abuse treatment while allowing monitoring of his electronic devices by the U.S. Probation Office. Additionally, he is banned from visiting UConn and other targeted locations mentioned in his threats.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation along with the Bristol Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel prosecuted the case.