Reno, Nev. -  An Elko man was indicted on April 28, 2004, by the Federal Grand Jury in Reno on two felony counts of Threat to Destroy By Fire and Explosives, announced Daniel G. Bogden, United States Attorney for the District of Nevada.

According to the Indictment, on January 24, 2004, JESS JAY LONG, age 19, of Elko, Nevada, allegedly called the Elko Police Department 911 Dispatch Center by cellular telephone, and threatened to damage and destroy the United States Post Office and Stockman's Casino in Elko by means of fire and an explosive. In making such threats, the Indictment alleges that JESS JAY LONG knew that he was maliciously conveying false information.

If convicted, LONG faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000 on each count. LONG is currently in state custody in Elko on unrelated charges. His initial appearance in federal court has not yet been set.

The public is reminded that an Indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case was jointly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Elko and the Elko Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese.

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