A San Diego man has been charged with mailing a threatening letter to a media personality in Tampa, Florida, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. George Russell Isbell Jr., 69, was arrested on October 7 in San Diego following an investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi commented on the arrest: “Thanks to the incredible teamwork between state, local, and federal law enforcement, this coward hiding behind a keyboard was taken into custody and charged federally for mailing threatening communications. We cannot allow this political violence to continue any longer. This arrest will serve as a reminder to many – do not do this, we will find you and bring you to justice.”
FBI Director Kash Patel also addressed the incident: “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate threats of violence like the kind allegedly made by the defendant about a media personality. We will continue to investigate, pursue, and find those responsible for this conduct and ensure such criminals are held to full account in our justice system.”
U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida stated: “Unfortunately, a rise in political threats has been accompanied by a rise in political violence. We take all threats of violence seriously and will continue to respond in close coordination with our law enforcement partners and prosecute the authors of such threatening communications.”
Court documents allege that Isbell mailed a letter from San Diego on or about September 18 threatening injury against his victim in Tampa. The letter reportedly included statements such as telling the victim they needed "to be exterminated" and referenced Charlie Kirk, described as a conservative activist who had recently been killed during an event at a college campus. The communication also contained violent language expressing hope for harm against the recipient.
If found guilty, Isbell could face up to five years in prison. Sentencing would be determined by a federal district court judge who would consider federal guidelines and other legal factors.
The investigation is being led by the FBI Tampa Field Office along with the Tampa Police Department, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, FBI San Diego Field Office, San Diego Police Department, and San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Wheeler III is prosecuting the case.
Authorities emphasized that criminal complaints are allegations only; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
