Alleged Election Denier Arrested for Threats to Arizona Election Officials

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Press Release

PHOENIX – The FBI arrested an Alabama man from Cullman on Wednesday, for allegedly sending threatening messages to Maricopa County election workers in Phoenix. Brian Jerry Ogstad, 59, made his initial appearance yesterday at the federal courthouse in Huntsville. "I've said it before and I'll say it again: Not all speech is protected speech," said Arizona Secretary of state Adrian Fontes. "Threatening elected officials will not be tolerated, and we are proud of our law enforcement partners at the FBI and the DOJ for holding this threat actor accountable."

According to an FBI release, Ogstad was indicted for allegedly sending threats to a social media account maintained by the Maricopa County Elections office after referencing claims of voter fraud in Arizona's 2022 gubernatorial race. Officials stated that these messages made a number of threats to election workers and officials, including that these employees were "dead" and "stupid if you think your lives are safe."

"We cannot permit election skeptics to threaten vigilante justice," said U.S. Attorney Gary M. Restaino for the District of Arizona in the release. "We will continue to prosecute true threats against Arizona's election officials and other public servants, including direct messages sent on social media, or communications in any other format."

Ogstad faces charges of five counts of communicating an interstate threat. Each count carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. This comes shortly after a San Diego man was arrested Feb. 22 for allegedly leaving violent threats on the voicemail of a Maricopa County election official.

The FBI Phoenix Field Office is investigating the case, with substantial assistance from the FBI Birmingham Field Office, as well as assisting the FBI San Diego Field Office with their investigation.

To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact the local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/ or by calling the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324). An online complaint form is available at www.tips.fbi.gov. A task force reviews submitted complaints for referral, additional investigation, or other appropriate responses. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or the local police immediately.

For more information about Arizona Elections and the Arizona Secretary of State, visit: https://azsos.gov/ or email [email protected]

 

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