WILLIAM DUGAS, age 48, a resident of Gretna, Louisiana, was charged today in a two-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury for threatening to destroy a nuclear reactor, announced U. S. Attorney Jim Letten.

DUGAS was arrested earlier this month and detained after appearing before a federal Magistrate Judge. According to court documents, on October 10 and 11, 2012, DUGAS called the Louisiana Public Service Commission and communicated threats to blow up a nuclear reactor because he was angry about his utility bill. Subsequent to a search warrant conducted by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, DUGAS was arrested and detained locally until his transfer into federal custody.

If convicted, DUGAS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of $250,000, and three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

U. S. Attorney Letten reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey N. Knight and investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

(Download Indictment )

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