Michigan – A New York resident has admitted in federal court to making a hate-fueled threat against Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, marking another troubling incident targeting public officials online. The plea was entered by 40-year-old Kevin Delgado of New York who acknowledged posting a threatening message aimed at Nessel after a public social media post she made last October.
The events unfolded on October 21, 2023, when Attorney General Nessel shared a deeply personal post on her X (formerly Twitter) account. She included a photo of herself with a friend who had been killed earlier that day. In her message, Nessel reflected on her friend’s faith, their positive impact on the community, and her own grief at the loss. The following day, Delgado responded to the post with a threat, specifically referencing Nessel’s religion and her perceived se*ual orientation.
Federal authorities responded swiftly. Delgado was charged and ultimately pleaded guilty to one count of transmitting threats in interstate commerce—a serious federal offense. According to prosecutors, Delgado admitted that his threats were motivated by hatred, specifically targeting the Attorney General’s religion and the perception of her se*ual orientation.
“The federal government is dedicated to protecting all Americans against threats of violence. Everyone person has equal dignity, and our office will tirelessly work to protect them. And public officials must be free to exercise their office without fear,” U.S. Attorney Gorgon said.
Cheyvoryea Gibson, who leads the Detroit Field Division of the FBI, echoed that sentiment. He described Delgado’s online comments as both illegal and “especially outrageous,” reinforcing that threats against public servants will not be tolerated. Gibson also highlighted the ongoing commitment of the FBI and its partners to investigate and hold accountable those who issue violent or hateful threats.
The case was brought to court following an FBI investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frances Lee Carlson. Delgado is now awaiting sentencing before United States District Court Judge Nancy G. Edmunds, with a sentencing hearing scheduled for September 22, 2025. He could face up to five years in prison for the crime.
This case stands as a reminder that online threats—particularly those motivated by hate—are taken seriously and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. As public officials continue to serve in the face of heightened tensions and hostility, federal authorities are sending a clear message: threats and hate crimes will not go unchecked.