A Maryland man is being held without bond after allegedly making violent threats against two Alexandria judges, the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office announced yesterday (Thursday).
The suspect, 53-year-old Lindolfo Pedraza, of Cumberland, was arrested by Cumberland police at his home on Wednesday afternoon, after the judges showed ASO several threatening electronic communications. He was charged with two counts of threats of death or bodily injury, two counts of obstruction of justice, two counts of harassment by computer, and one count of stalking.
“In Alexandria, threats to judges or other judicial officers may be rare but are always taken very seriously,” Sheriff Sean Casey said in a release. “In this case, the threats of violence required immediate action.”
ASO withheld the names of the judges.
Pedraza was denied bond during a bond hearing yesterday in Allegany District Court, per court records. His next appearance on a fugitive from justice charge is Jan. 30, and ASO said that he will be extradited to Alexandria.
In addition to screening guests and visitors at the Alexandria Circuit Court (520 King Street), the Sheriff’s Office is responsible for security and safety in the building, is present at court proceedings and ensures defendants are secure.
“Thanks to Investigator Cañas, our Investigations, Professionalism & Oversight team, the Alexandria Police Department, and the Cumberland Police Department for taking swift action that resulted in the suspect’s arrest,” Casey said.
