A former Georgia poll worker has been indicted for allegedly mailing a threatening letter that targeted a polling place and its workers, as well as for making false statements to federal investigators. Nicholas Wimbish, 25, of Milledgeville, was arrested earlier this month and now faces multiple charges, including mailing a bomb threat and making false statements to the FBI.
According to the indictment, Wimbish was working as a poll worker at the Jones County Elections Office on October 16 when he became involved in a verbal altercation with a voter. The following day, Wimbish is accused of conducting online research to gather personal information about himself. Later that evening, he allegedly mailed a letter to the Jones County Elections Superintendent, which was purportedly from a “Jones County Voter.”
The letter contained violent and threatening language, stating that Wimbish and other poll workers “should look over their shoulder” and that their personal addresses were known. The letter also included a chilling reference to a bomb, with the writer claiming there was a “boom toy” at an early voting location, and warned poll workers to “be safe.”
The letter further contained violent threats, including promises of physical harm to poll workers, and disturbing comments about “treason punishment by firing squad” and violent acts against women. Authorities say the letter was found on Wimbish’s computer.
The indictment alleges that Wimbish falsely told the FBI during its investigation that he believed the voter he had argued with had sent the letter. Wimbish also allegedly lied about not conducting online research on himself.
Wimbish is charged with mailing a bomb threat, conveying false information about a bomb, mailing a threatening letter, and making false statements to the FBI. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison for the bomb threat charge and up to five years in prison for each of the other charges.
The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted in the Middle District of Georgia. Wimbish made his initial court appearance on November 5, and a federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by authorities to ensure the safety and security of elections and the individuals who work to facilitate them.
