News Summary
A 63-year-old man from Vero Beach, Florida, has been indicted for allegedly sending a letter with suspicious white powder to the New York State Attorney General’s Office. Charged with intimidation, the man faces potential prison time and fines. The Justice Department confirmed the substance was non-hazardous, but emphasized the seriousness of threats against public officials. This indictment comes amidst heightened tensions related to the Attorney General’s recent actions. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is involved in the investigation, highlighting the commitment to safeguarding public officials.
Florida – A 63-year-old man from Vero Beach, Florida, has been indicted for allegedly mailing a letter containing a “suspicious white powder” to the New York State Attorney General’s Office in Albany. Henry Garcia was charged with the act that reportedly took place on February 22, 2024. The letter, which was sent with the intent to intimidate Attorney General Letitia James, drew the attention of federal authorities who are now pursuing legal action against him.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed that the white powder found in the letter was not hazardous. However, it was represented as a biological weapon, a tactic presumably meant to threaten or instill fear in the public official. U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III has condemned the actions of Garcia, emphasizing that no public servant should face such intimidation or threats while fulfilling their duties.
Currently, Garcia faces a potential sentence of up to five years in prison if convicted. Additionally, he may be subject to a maximum fine of $250,000 and could face up to three years of supervised release following any prison term. Garcia made his initial court appearance on June 25, 2025, in Fort Pierce, Florida, and is being held pending a detention hearing scheduled for June 30, 2025.
The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is actively involved in the investigation of this case, collaborating with various local and state agencies, including the New York State Police and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office. This collaboration underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating threats against public officials.
This incident occurs in a broader context of heightened tensions surrounding Attorney General James, who has faced criticism from former President Donald Trump and his supporters following a fraud judgment against the former president. The incident with Garcia reflects the continuing scrutiny and concerns about threats directed at officials while they carry out their public responsibilities.
Garcia’s legal history includes a DUI conviction back in November 2024, which involved property damage and fleeing the scene of an accident. He received a 90-day jail sentence and was placed on three years of probation for that offense. This previous conviction raises further questions about Garcia’s actions and motivations in sending the threatening letter to the Attorney General’s office.
As threats against public officials become a growing concern, this indictment serves as a reminder of the legal consequences individuals may face when unlawfully threatening those in positions of authority. The ongoing investigation signifies a commitment by law enforcement to safeguard public officials as they perform their vital duties.
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