A resident of Millis, Massachusetts, has been indicted on federal charges and stands accused of making threats to kill members of the Jewish community and bomb synagogues.

The Department of Justice reports that the 59-year-old, identified as John Reardon, is charged with one count of using interstate commerce facilities to issue threats involving explosives, as Fox News reported.

Disturbing Rise in Antisemitism

Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy commented on the severity of the situation, stating, "The allegations here about the series of threats Mr. Reardon made against the Jewish community are deeply disturbing and reflect the increasing torrent of antisemitism across our country and right here in Massachusetts."

Levy also highlighted the growing concern over antisemitism and Islamophobia, reaffirming the commitment of federal, state, and local partners to combat these hateful acts.

Details of the Threatening Voicemail

According to the allegations, on Jan. 25, 2024, Reardon called Congregation Agudas Achim, a synagogue in Attleboro, Massachusetts, leaving a voicemail replete with antisemitic remarks.

Reardon allegedly said, "You do realize that by supporting genocide that means it's ok for people to commit genocide against you."

He continued, "With supporting the killing of innocent little children, that means it's ok to kill your children."

He also made a series of other threatening and derogatory comments targeting Jewish people and their practices.

The DOJ pointed out that Reardon's message expressed intense animosity towards the Jewish community, including threats of violence against their children and places of worship.

Reardon reportedly remarked, "You people need to stop the f**king genocide," "You people need to stop the f**king genocide."

He added, "I supported Jewish people though. Not anymore. A matter of fact I think we should kill you(s) all," and "Have a lousy day and oh don't be surprised if there's pig blood on your steps tomorrow."

Additional Threatening Calls and Arrest

Following the voicemail to Congregation Agudas Achim, the DOJ asserts that Reardon made similar calls to another local synagogue and a Jewish organization.

These incidents led to his prompt arrest by local law enforcement.

FBI's Stance on Ideological Violence

Jodi Cohen, FBI special agent in charge, addressed the gravity of Reardon's actions, saying, "John Reardon is accused of using his words as a weapon, leaving a threatening message to frighten members of the Congregation Agudas Achim."

Cohen emphasized the FBI's commitment to taking threats to life seriously, despite not policing ideology.

Potential Consequences for Reardon

If found guilty, Reardon faces a possible sentence of up to ten years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Additionally, he could be subjected to a fine of as much as $250,000.