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Press Release

Jefferson County Man Arrested for Terroristic Threat in Beaumont

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Texas

BEAUMONT, Texas – A 23-year-old Beaumont, Texas man has been arrested for federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas announced U.S. Attorney John M. Bales.              

Lance Giovanni Fontenot was arrested on Wednesday, June 15, 2016 pursuant to a criminal complaint issued by the U.S. District Court charging him with maliciously conveying false information about explosive materials.  Fontenot appeared in federal court this afternoon on the charges.

According to information presented in court, on June 15, 2016, the ExxonMobil refinery located in Beaumont, Texas received a call from an individual claiming explosive devices had been placed at the refinery and were set to explode.  An investigation led authorities to Fontenot.  Fontenot was questioned by federal agents and admitted to placing the telephone call. 

If convicted, Fontenot faces up 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the Joint Terrorism Task Force including agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Beaumont Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Services, and the Port Arthur Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lesley Woods.

It is important to note that a complaint, arrest, or indictment should not be considered is evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Updated June 16, 2016

Topic
National Security