Title of the news release goes here

Orlando, Florida - U.S. Attorney Robert E. O'Neill announces that a federal jury found Christopher Castillo (28, Melbourne) guilty yesterday of threatening to kill the President of the United States. Castillo faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 26, 2013, before United States District Judge John Antoon, II. Castillo was indicted on December 12, 2012, after a criminal complaint was issued on November 13, 2012.

According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Castillo made a threat against the President on a social networking site. In November 2012, Castillo posted the following on Facebook, "that's the last straw, if he gets re-elected I'm going to hunt him down and kill him watch the life disappear from his eyes." After someone informed Castillo that threatening the President was a federal offense, Castillo posted, "I wouldn't call it a threat but more of a promise, let them come after me...Be more than happy to take a few of them with me."

A witness reported the threat to the United States Secret Service, and law enforcement officers subsequently interviewed Castillo at his home. During the interview, Castillo admitted making the statements. He also stated that he meant it because of his "severe anger" toward the President because of the President's views on healthcare. When asked what he would do if the President were standing in front of him, Castillo made an explicit statement about slapping and beating the President. Castillo also told agents that he would call the President a terrorist. During the trial, Castillo testified that he was just angry and did not really mean that he would kill the President.

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn P. Napier.