Carl Howard Payne Jr., a Colorado man, is facing federal charges for allegedly sending threatening emails titled “Declaration of War” to Tesla owners, President Trump’s cabinet, and Elon Musk. Payne Jr. supposedly described plans for violent attacks against Tesla owners and Musk in the emails, which were sent from a Proton Mail account on March 20 to various news outlets. If convicted, he could face up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, among other penalties.
During an initial court appearance, Payne Jr. denied sending the threatening emails. The emails also criticized Trump’s presidency and cabinet and called for the abolition of the current government. The criminal complaint also stated that Payne Jr. sent similar threatening letters to insurance companies, including one with a return address of “The White House.”
Authorities found three handguns in Payne Jr.’s house during a search, including one mentioned in the emails detailing the alleged plan. Payne Jr. was previously employed in technology management and software industry and has no criminal history besides an expired vehicle registration.
Federal prosecutors alleged that Payne Jr. was the user of the Proton Mail and Signal accounts used to send the threats. He appeared in court on Wednesday and is scheduled for a detention hearing on Tuesday.
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