Federal authorities have arrested Jackson Fleming, 23, of Chesterton, Indiana, on allegations that he sent a threat via a social media application related to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. The arrest took place in Indiana on September 12 after a magistrate judge approved a complaint charging Fleming with one count of transmitting a threat in interstate communication in the Northern District of Indiana. Fleming made his initial court appearance there on September 15.
The arrest was announced by Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; M. Scott Proctor, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Indiana; Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno from the FBI’s Baltimore Field Office; and Special Agent in Charge Timothy J. O’Malley from the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office.
According to authorities, “A complaint is not evidence of guilt and is a temporary charge that must be followed by information or an indictment that formally brings federal charges.” If formal charges are brought against Fleming and he is convicted, he could face up to five years in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Hayes recognized the efforts of several agencies involved: “U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation. Additionally, Ms. Hayes praised the Porter County Sheriff’s Office, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the United States Naval Academy for their assistance with the investigation.” She also acknowledged Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis Sohn as prosecutor on this case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert I. Goldaris for his support.
For additional details about priorities or resources available through the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md or https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.
