In mid April, 2007, the Arizona Daily Sun filed a police report after receiving a threatening e-mail on one of their sites.  The author of the e-mail threatened violence against minorities as well as making threats reference the upcoming “Cinco de Mayo” event.  The man used a false name on the message but was identified following investigation by local police.  The e-mailed threat fell under the jurisdiction of the F.B.I., who assumed lead role of the investigation.

The FBI was able to identify the suspect as James Cheek, 55, of Flagstaff.  Investigators from the Flagstaff Police Department assisted in locating the suspect who was subsequently arrested by FBI agents.  He is currently in custody for the federal charge of sending a threatening interstate communication.  The agents on the case explained that there was one threat and one suspect.  A search warrant was served on the suspect’s residence with no evidence located. 

The Flagstaff Police Department and the State GITEM unit will be highly visible at this weekend’s events.  As always, officers will work closely with the Sunnyside Neighborhood Association and maintain a highly visible presence dedicated to insuring public safety during the event.

If you observe suspicious persons or are aware of threats do not hesitate to report them at the Flagstaff Police Department, 774-1414 or the Silent Witness line at 774-6111.