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Tampa man convicted for bomb threat against congressional office

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U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg | U.S. Department of Justice

A federal jury in Tampa has found Rigoberto Albizar Martinez guilty of threatening to destroy a building with an explosive. Martinez, 57, from Tampa, could face up to 10 years in federal prison following the verdict. The sentencing date is yet to be determined.

The incident occurred on May 1, 2024, when Martinez called the district office of a U.S. House Representative in Tampa. During the call, he left a voicemail that was described as vulgar and racist, where he threatened to plant a bomb in the office.

The United States Capitol Police's Threat Assessment Section led the investigation into this case. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Karyna Valdes and Special Assistant United States Attorney Joe Wheeler III.

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