A man from North Dakota has found himself on the wrong side of the law after allegedly threatening an employee at the Augusta National Golf Club. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Joseph Armand Zimmer, 48, was taken into custody in Las Vegas this week, facing a serious accusation that could land him behind bars for up to five years.
The Justice Department laid out the chilling details, saying Zimmer called the golf club on February 18 and made threats that he would "throw [the individual] in a cell and have [her] set on fire," and also "blow [her] head off." These actions represent an apparent attempt to grossly intimidate an employee at the famous golf course, which is no small deal—especially considering the prestige of Augusta National and its flagship Masters Tournament. The indictment, as cited by WSB-TV, could also slap Zimmer with a $250,000 fine if convicted.
"Those who make threats against members of our community in violation of federal law will be held accountable," Acting U.S. Attorney Lyons was quoted in the statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta. He underscored the resolve of law enforcement to work together in seeking justice against those who try to inspire fear in others through menacing means. Meanwhile, the FBI has made it clear that they are taking this case very seriously, dedicating resources to track down and prosecute such cases.
The Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta, Paul Brown, emphasized their vigilance, saying "The FBI treats threatening communications with the utmost seriousness and will dedicate all available resources to locating and prosecuting those responsible for such actions." He expressed hope, in a statement obtained by WSB-TV, that the indictment would send a clear message to anyone thinking to make, or even to just carelessly throw around, threats through electronic communication.
Currently, Zimmer is on the hook to appear in a Georgia court to respond to these charges, with the FBI's investigation still in progress.
