Two individuals have been arrested on federal charges for allegedly using the social media messaging app Telegram to promote hate crimes and acts of violence against minorities, government officials, and critical infrastructure in the United States. The defendants, identified as Dallas Erin Humber and Matthew Robert Allison, face a total of 15 federal counts in the Eastern District of California.
Humber, 34, of Elk Grove, California, and Allison, 37, of Boise, Idaho, were taken into custody on Friday. Humber pleaded not guilty to the charges in a Sacramento courtroom on Monday, while it remains unclear if Allison has legal representation at this time.
The indictment accuses the pair of leading a network on Telegram called Terrorgram, where they allegedly encouraged followers to target government buildings, energy facilities, and high-profile individuals. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the Justice Department's commitment to holding perpetrators of bias-motivated violence accountable.
Prosecutors allege that Humber and Allison used the app to disseminate bomb-making instructions, distribute lists of potential assassination targets, and celebrate violent acts carried out by followers. They also produced a documentary titled “White Terror” that glorified white supremacist violence over several decades.
Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen highlighted the serious risk posed by the defendants, noting that their influence extends beyond the internet due to the platform they have created. Telegram, the messaging app in question, has faced scrutiny for its use by various extremist groups and criminal organizations.
Telegram's founder and CEO, Pavel Durov, was recently detained by French authorities on charges related to criminal activity on the platform. Durov responded by acknowledging the challenges faced by Telegram in combating misuse and pledged to enhance efforts to prevent criminal behavior on the app.
The arrests of Humber and Allison underscore the ongoing efforts to address online platforms being used to incite violence and promote extremist ideologies. The Justice Department's actions serve as a reminder of the consequences individuals may face for engaging in hate-motivated activities and advocating for violence.
