Since the tragedy at the World Trade Center, the term “terrorist threat” has taken on added meaning and conjures images of mass attacks involving explosive devices carried out by radical groups.  What most people in Pittsburgh and throughout Pennsylvania do not realize is that a terrorist threat often involves nothing more than a threat between a husband and wife engaged in a heated argument.  A mere threat in the context of a marital argument can result in a person being charged with making a terrorist threat.

Under Pennsylvania criminal law, a person may be charged with a terrorist threat if the person makes a direct or indirect threat of violence, which is communicated, to another with the intent to terrorize the other party.  This broadly defined offense may include threatening language that is made in a moment of anger with no intention to carry out the threat.  People are often charged with this offense even when the alleged victim did not really believe that the threat was serious.

A Pennsylvania criminal conviction for a terrorist threat under Pennsylvania law constitutes a first-degree misdemeanor.  Conviction of a first-degree felony in Pennsylvania exposes an accused to a sentence ranging from two and a half (2.5) years to five (5) years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.  While a threat made in a fit of anger during a heated argument may seem like “no big deal,” a terrorist threat charge is a very serious Pennsylvania criminal offense.

Criminal defense attorney Michael V. Worgul has represented hundreds of Pennsylvania residents accused of serious criminal offenses including making terrorist threats.  We will carefully investigate the facts and circumstance of your case so that we can develop the most effective defense strategy, which may include a motion to suppress evidence, an attack on the credibility and motivations of your accuser or a challenge as so whether you had the appropriate intent.  The prosecutor must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Michael V. Worgul, Attorney at Law, will zealously defend you from these serious charges and put the prosecution through its paces.  Our goal is to seek your dismissal, acquittal, alternative sentencing or a reduction of charges.  We offer a free initial consultation so call us to determine your rights at 1-855-DUI-CRIM.