George Joseph Wellinger II, a San Diego resident, received a sentence in federal court today. He was sentenced to six months in custody and four months of home confinement for sending a threatening email to an LGBTQ community member. The case highlighted the ongoing issue of hate crimes targeting individuals based on sexual orientation.
Wellinger admitted in his plea agreement that he selected his victim because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation. This action stemmed from his animosity toward members of the LGBTQ community. Court documents revealed that the victim became a target after participating in a KTLA news report concerning a hate-inspired murder in Lake Arrowhead in August 2023.
The threatening email referred to the victim as "another alphabet clown that wants to take a dirt nap, too," and linked to the KTLA news report featuring discussions about the murder of a business owner who had displayed a Pride flag.
U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon remarked on the severity of Wellinger's actions, stating, "This was a particularly cruel act. No one should have to live in fear." He emphasized the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect civil rights within the community.
FBI San Diego Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi commented on the sentencing: “Today’s sentence serves as a stark reminder there is no place for hate crimes in San Diego or anywhere.” He further noted that the FBI's dedication to investigating hate crimes highlights their seriousness and aims to protect communities from fear.
Individuals who suspect they are victims of hate crimes are encouraged to contact the FBI at www.tips.fbi.gov. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacqueline M. Jimenez and Alicia Williams are handling this prosecution.
Wellinger faced charges under Title 18 U.S.C., § 875(c) for transmitting threatening communications, with a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation into this case.
For more information on combating hate crimes, visit https://www.justice.gov/hatecrimes.
