A Brentwood man is facing federal charges for threatening to bomb a Nashville courthouse. Alexander Thompson, 35, was arrested after making a threat to damage the Fred D. Thompson Federal Building and Courthouse with an explosive.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office release, Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire stressed the seriousness of such threats, stating, "We take dangerous threats to public spaces and public servants extremely seriously and will always act swiftly to hold those responsible accountable for their actions." The safety of courthouse employees and visitors was a priority in response to the bomb threat. The threat was communicated via an email sent to the Tucker Carlson Network (TCN), in which Thompson expressed his intent to carry out the bombing within one to two weeks.
The Metropolitan Nashville Police Department (MNPD) was alerted to the email on Sunday. The email described Thompson’s claims of harassment and torture and his belief that the U.S. government was no longer legitimate. He also mentioned being targeted by a surveillance system on every device in the country. The email ended with a thank-you note, signed by Thompson.
Investigators traced Thompson’s X account, @cryptokeeper434, where he posted photos related to bomb-making materials and the targeted courthouse. Thompson’s plans were further revealed after his arrest on Monday, at his workplace in Goodlettsville, Tennessee. During questioning, Thompson acknowledged the plot, explaining that he intended to bomb the building because he believed he couldn't change the system from the outside and felt he needed to be arrested to bring about change from within.
A search of Thompson's residence was conducted, where law enforcement found multiple empty jars, wicks, wax, and an assembled Molotov cocktail, consistent with the items shown in his online posts. Thompson faces up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted. The case is being prosecuted by Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire and investigated by the FBI Nashville Field Office.
