Jonathan James Elder, a 35-year-old resident of St. Petersburg, has been arrested and charged by criminal complaint for allegedly using the telephone to make a threat against MacDill Air Force Base, according to an announcement made by United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe on March 26.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about threats directed at military installations and the resulting disruptions such incidents can cause. If convicted, Elder could face up to ten years in federal prison.
According to the complaint, Elder called MacDill Air Force Base on March 18 following the discovery of a suspicious package at the base's Visitor Control Center earlier that week. During the call, he said, “How did you like the surprise at the MacDill Visitor Center?” and then yelled “tick tick boom, it’s gonna be between your eyes,” before hanging up. This prompted officials to close all gates at MacDill and order personnel on base to shelter in place for approximately four hours.
Law enforcement also reported that prior to this incident, Elder called another number not associated with MacDill Air Force Base and made additional threatening statements referencing pipe bombs and expressing anger over issues related to his medication.
Elder was later located in St. Petersburg by law enforcement agents from multiple agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, and St. Petersburg Police Department. He remains in federal custody as his case proceeds.
Kehoe emphasized that "A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty." The case will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan.
