An Alabama man, Arthur Ray Hanson II, was sentenced to nearly two years in prison for leaving threatening phone messages for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and Sheriff Pat Labat. Hanson, of Huntsville, made the calls in August 2023, just before former President Donald Trump and 18 others were indicted in Fulton County over election-related issues.
U.S. District Judge J.P. Boulee in Atlanta described Hanson's behavior as 'appalling' and sentenced him to a year and nine months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Hanson also received a $7,500 fine. He had pleaded guilty to leaving threatening messages in June.
During the hearing, Hanson tearfully apologized to Willis and Labat, expressing remorse for his actions. Willis shared that the threats made her fear for her family's safety, emphasizing the impact on her daughters and father.
Hanson's defense attorney highlighted his client's struggles with alcohol abuse, grand mal seizures, and bipolar disorder. Hanson had completed an anger management course and attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings regularly.
Friends and family described Hanson as a good person, stating that the threatening calls did not reflect his true character. Hanson admitted to being under the influence of alcohol when he made the calls and expressed disgust upon hearing the recordings.
Prosecutors argued for a prison sentence, emphasizing the seriousness of Hanson's crime and the harm caused to the victims. Judge Boulee acknowledged the severity of the threats and the racial slurs used in the messages, calling Hanson's behavior unacceptable.
Willis, who forgave Hanson after the hearing, emphasized the importance of addressing the racist nature of the threats. She affirmed her commitment to continuing her duties as District Attorney, including the prosecution of cases involving Trump.
The case against Trump is currently on hold pending a pretrial appeal, while Willis is running for re-election. Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Willis affirmed her dedication to upholding the law and prosecuting cases in her office.
