Alabama Man Receives 30-Month Sentence for Threatening Maricopa Election Officials with Death

An Alabama man has been sentenced to nearly three years in prison for threatening Maricopa County Elections staff regarding the 2022 election. Brian Jerry Ogstad, 60, received a 30-month sentence along with 36 months of supervised release during a hearing in Phoenix before U.S. District Judge Michael T. Liburdi. He was also ordered to pay a $1,000 fine, as reported by Justice Department spokesman Zach J. Stoebe.

Ogstad pleaded guilty in July to one count of making a threatening interstate communication, stemming from nearly two dozen aggressive messages sent via Instagram to county elections officials. Initially facing a potential five-year prison sentence and fines up to $20,000, Ogstad’s case sheds light on the heightened scrutiny of threats against election workers.

“In this election season, we honor and respect those public servants who enable Americans to exercise their constitutional right to vote,” commented U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino. “Threats of violence, whether conveyed through words or actions, will be addressed with serious prosecution.” His remarks echo a broader national concern regarding the safety of election officials.

FBI officials have also reiterated the gravity of these threats. Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarod Brown stated, “Violence against election workers threatens our democratic process and cannot become normalized.” This sentiment has gained urgency among increasing incidents of harassment against election staff across the country.

On the same day Ogstad was sentenced, authorities apprehended a 60-year-old man in Maricopa County, linking him to multiple acts of political violence. This individual reportedly had amassed an arsenal, including 120 guns and substantial ammunition, allegedly preparing for a “mass casualty event.”

Threats targeting elections officials have become more pronounced, compelling some jurisdictions to equip staff with protective gear and training against potential violence. Gabriella Cázares-Kelly, Pima County Recorder, noted these threats are under constant watch from both state and federal agencies.

Ogstad’s tirade began on August 2, 2022, with inflammatory messages that included claims of widespread election fraud. His aggressive communication style included graphic content and threats directed at specific individuals, showcasing a disturbing intersection of political rhetoric and personal hostility.

As the political landscape evolves, several candidates have faced scrutiny related to claims of election fraud, including Kari Lake and Katie Hobbs. Despite the allegations, Hobbs secured victory with over 17,000 votes in the 2022 gubernatorial election, while Lake has pursued various legal avenues to contest the results.

Ogstad’s background as a former business professor contrasts sharply with his current legal troubles, which stem from unfounded conspiracy theories. The investigation into his threats was led by the FBI Phoenix Field Office, with significant assistance from its Birmingham counterpart.

The Justice Department continues to take a proactive stance against intimidation at polling places and threats directed at election officials. Recently, they appointed Sean Lokey as the district’s election officer, responsible for overseeing complaints related to voter rights violations and election-related threats.