Hawaii Man Charged With Threatening to Kill Gov. Whitmer

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is no stranger to death threats. A Hawaii resident allegedly sent messages saying he would kill her and others when he came to Lansing.

First Known Assassination and Kidnapping Attempt of Governor Whitmer

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Michigan's Capitol in Lansing has been the site of multiple armed militia protests in recent years. Many demonstrators opposed Governor Whitmer's COVID-19 restrictions, including stay-at-home orders, mask requirements, and business shutdowns.

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Some extremists viewed the public health measures as government overreach and labeled Whitmer a tyrant. In 2020, members of the right-wing militia group the Wolverine Watchmen plotted to kidnap and assassinate the governor, according to federal prosecutors.

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The group allegedly planned to put Whitmer on trial for treason, but the FBI infiltrated the organization and stopped the kidnapping plot before it could be carried out.

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A Hawaii resident visiting Texas allegedly sent emails threatening to open fire at the Michigan Capitol and kill Governor Whitmer.

Hawaii Man Accused of Death Threats Against Whitmer

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According to WOOD TV 8, 48-year-old Hawaii resident Ronald Saville has been federally charged with allegedly threatening to enter the Michigan Capitol, kill as many people as possible, and murder Governor Whitmer.

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According to the FBI, Saville later called the agency a few days after sending the threatening emails and told an agent he wanted to kill Governor Whitmer because of her political affiliation.

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Each count carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. Court records show he has previous convictions for making threats against former President George W. Bush and a former U.S. District Court judge.

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