George Joseph Wellinger II has pleaded guilty in a federal court in San Diego, acknowledging he sent a threatening email to an LGBTQ community member. The plea agreement reveals that Wellinger targeted the victim based on her actual or perceived sexual orientation, driven by his hostility toward the LGBTQ community.
The victim became a target after participating in a KTLA news report about a hate crime murder in Lake Arrowhead in August 2023. In the email, Wellinger referred to the victim as "another alphabet clown that wants to take a dirt nap, too," and included a link to the news report discussing the murder of Laura Ann Carleton, who was killed for displaying a Pride flag at her business.
The email further stated: “We know what you look like and know where are you are....only a matter of time....Love it....get ur ghey on sister....scissor it up....we coming for ur rainbow azz. Click Click!!!"
Laura Ann Carleton was murdered on August 18, 2023, by Travis Ikeguchi, who was subsequently killed by law enforcement after fleeing the scene. KTLA covered Carleton’s death on August 30, 2023.
Wellinger admitted guilt to Interstate Threatening Communication with a special finding related to targeting due to sexual orientation. His sentencing is set for June 9, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacqueline M. Jimenez and Alicia Williams are handling prosecution duties for this case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation.
The charge against Wellinger falls under Title 18 U.S.C., § 875(c), which carries a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment.
For those who suspect they have been victims of hate crimes, contact can be made with the FBI through their website at www.tips.fbi.gov.