A Texas man, Brian Michael Gaherty, 61, from Houston, has been sentenced to 33 months in federal prison and fined $10,000 for leaving threatening and racist voicemails for California Democratic Rep. Maxine Waters. The sentencing was handed down by United States District Judge R. Gary Klausner, who added a hate-crime enhancement to the sentence due to the racial nature of the threats.
Gaherty pleaded guilty to one count of threatening a United States official after admitting to leaving four voicemails in August and November 2022, where he threatened to assault and murder Waters. The voicemails contained profanity and racist language, with Gaherty making explicit threats of violence against the congresswoman.
U.S. Capitol Police traced the calls back to Gaherty through his phone number, leading to his arrest. Despite warnings to cease his threatening behavior, Gaherty continued to make violent threats, prompting his prosecution.
During the sentencing, Waters expressed the fear and impact the threats had on her and her family, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice. She highlighted the growing trend of targeting people of color and women of color, stating that such actions have caused her nightmares and a constant fear for her life.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada condemned threats against public officials, emphasizing that such actions are contrary to the nation's values and will not be tolerated. The Department of Justice remains committed to combating threats and ensuring the protection of democracy.
Gaherty's attorney did not provide a comment following the sentencing. The case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences individuals face for making violent threats against elected officials and the importance of upholding the rule of law.
