Massachusetts Man Charged for Threatening Email to FBI Director's Girlfriend

A Massachusetts resident, Alden Welch Ruml, was apprehended last Friday for allegedly sending a threatening email to FBI Director Kash Patel's girlfriend, Alexis Wilkins. According to court documents, Ruml expressed he would be 'happy' when her face is 'canoed by an assault rifle'.

The email came after Ruml became upset over a February 28 article highlighting the use of FBI resources for Wilkins' security, and discussing her and Patel's political affiliations. The federal prosecutors in Boston charged Ruml with making threats in interstate commerce. Following his arrest, Ruml pleaded not guilty and faces a possible five-year prison sentence if convicted.

While the FBI and defense attorney William Fick have not commented, court papers reveal the email had frightened Wilkins, prompting changes in her travel plans. Law enforcement traced the email to Ruml, who claimed no intention to harm anyone.