Huntsville, Ala. resident, Hanson, was sentenced to 21 months in prison after pleading guilty to making threatening voicemails to Fulton County elected officials, Willis and Labat. Both officials testified that they felt threatened and feared for their lives and the safety of their families after receiving the voicemails. Hanson offered a tearful apology in court, stating that he was overwhelmed by the internet and regrets his actions.
Willis, who has faced numerous threats due to her prosecution of high-profile cases, mentioned that Hanson’s voicemails stood out to her because they included threats towards her family. Labat also expressed his concerns for his safety and that of his loved ones.
Hanson stated that he was drunk when he made the threatening calls and has since been attending anger management courses and seeing a psychologist for his bipolar disorder. Despite his efforts to rehabilitate himself, the judge sentenced him to 21 months due to the genuine fear expressed by Willis and Labat.
After the sentencing, Willis expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the judge’s decision sends a strong message that threatening behavior towards elected officials, especially African Americans, will not be tolerated. Ultimately, Hanson’s case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of making threats against public figures.
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