A Detroit man has been charged with making a series of bomb threats against a Macomb County homeless shelter, according to law enforcement officials. Aramis Marquis Smith, 33, is accused of using the TextNow app last Saturday to make five calls to the Macomb County Rotating Emergency Shelter Team’s (MCREST) facility in Mount Clemens, claiming there may be a bomb in the building. CBS News Detroit reported that bomb-sniffing K-9 units cleared the building without finding any explosive devices. Following the initial scare, Smith allegedly continued his threatening calls, telling MCREST staff, "You still are not safe."
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido described the threats as a serious disruption. "The gravity of this offense and its impact on MCREST and the services it provides to the public are serious," Lucido said, as per The Detroit News. Smith's identity was reportedly revealed after shelter staff recognized his voice, and authorities located him sitting across the street from MCREST when they arrested him. Charged with one count of false report or threat of terrorism, and one count of false report of threat of bomb/harmful device, Smith could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
The severity of the charges reflects the potential for panic and harm stemming from such acts. "We will fully prosecute this reckless and intentional behavior to hold this individual accountable for his actions," Lucido further emphasized. Smith was arraigned with a bond set at $5,000. The Detroit News noted that a probable cause conference for Smith is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. June 23, with a preliminary examination date to follow.
