Officials: Former Mississippi teacher faces federal charges after making online threats; explosive material found at house

Published 5:38 pm Wednesday, September 4, 2024

A former Mississippi teacher has been charged with federal offenses for allegedly making online threats against school officials and former students.

Daniel Christian Johnson, 36, of Meridian, was charged today after law enforcement discovered threats he posted on social media, including specific threats to kill individuals and carry out acts of violence using firearms and explosives.

Court documents reveal that a search of Johnson’s home last week led to the discovery of materials allegedly used to create explosive devices. Johnson now faces federal charges, including Interstate Communications with Threat to Kidnap or Injure and Willfully Making a Threat involving Explosive Materials. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in prison.

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In addition to federal charges, Johnson is also facing state charges brought by the Office of the District Attorney for Mississippi’s 10th Circuit Court District. He remains in custody.

U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi, alongside FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff, announced the charges. The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samuel Goff and Brett Grantham prosecuting.