LANSING -- Jihaad Ahmad, 36, currently incarcerated in the Michigan Department of Corrections, was arraigned on Monday in Lansing’s 54-A District Court on one count False Report or Threat of Terrorism, announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. Ahmad is charged for allegedly threatening Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. 

The State alleges that in response to being denied parole, Ahmad sent a letter to Governor Whitmer’s office in May of 2024, where he threatened the Governor’s life and to bomb her residence when he was released from prison. Michigan State Police was provided the letter for investigation. 

“Violence and violent rhetoric directed at elected officials pose significant threats to not only them but our democracy as a whole,” Nessel said. “My department is committed to prosecuting this offense to the fullest extent of the law.” 

The offense is potentially punishable by up to 20 years’ incarceration and/or up to $20,000 fine. He will next appear in 54-A District on November 14, 2024, before Judge Cynthia Ward.