Florida man charged with threatening to kill Democrat lawmaker's kids: report
A Florida septuagenarian stands accused of threatening to murder a California Democrat and his children, according to reports.
Michael Shapiro, 72, of Greenacres appeared in court on Wednesday in connection with the threats received by Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA) and his children, according to NBC News.
Shapiro stands accused of leaving sinister voicemails at Swalwell’s congressional D.C. office in December, according to the report.
Swalwell received five voicemail messages on Dec. 19 that the caller would "come after you and kill you" and that he'd "come and kill your children," according to the report.
Shapiro has been accused of making threats in the past, according to NBC News. He was released on bail and expected to return for his arraignment Jan. 24.
“There is no place in America for threats of political violence,” Swalwell said in a statement Wednesday night regarding the arrest.
“We must always resolve our differences at the ballot box. While I will continue to protect my family and staff these continued threats will never stop me from representing my constituents.”
An attorney listed for Shapiro did not respond to NBC's request for comment.