York County, Pennsylvania, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Troy Lamont Rishell, 48, from York County, pleaded guilty to making threats against a U.S. Representative through voicemails. He faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine after leaving threatening messages to intimidate the official while they were performing their duties. The case, investigated by the U.S. Capitol Police and Secret Service, underscores the critical issues surrounding the safety of public officials today.
York County Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening U.S. Representative in Voicemails
Troy Lamont Rishell, a 48-year-old man from York County, has pleaded guilty to making threats against a member of the United States House of Representatives. The court proceedings took place in the Middle District of Pennsylvania.
Rishell’s guilty plea stems from allegations that he left a series of threatening voicemails directed at the congressional office. Between February 28 and May 20 of this year, he reportedly threatened to assault and murder the representative in an attempt to intimidate them while they were performing their official duties.
According to court records, Rishell signed a plea agreement and waived indictment, leading to his guilty plea for the felony charge. He now faces the possibility of a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and a period of three years under supervised release following his potential incarceration.
The investigation that led to Rishell’s charge was conducted by the United States Capitol Police in conjunction with the Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wesley Mishoe is overseeing the prosecution of this case.
Potential Penalties
With the guilty plea entered, Rishell now awaits sentencing, where the court will determine the specific penalties he will face. The charges he pleaded guilty to carry serious implications, highlighting the legal consequences of making threats against public officials.
Background on the Case
This case sheds light on an ongoing issue regarding the safety of public officials, particularly in the current political climate where threats have become increasingly common. The actions of Rishell underscore the need for continued vigilance and the role of law enforcement agencies such as the U.S. Capitol Police and the Secret Service in protecting lawmakers.
Pleading guilty to such a charge marks a significant step in the judicial process, demonstrating the law’s framework surrounding threats made against elected representatives. As the case progresses towards sentencing, it emphasizes the broader context of the importance of maintaining respect and security among public officials.
Summary of Key Points
- Defendant: Troy Lamont Rishell, 48, from York County.
- Charge: Felony conviction for threatening a U.S. Representative.
- Voicemails: Left between February 28 and May 20, threatening to assault and murder.
- Investigation: Conducted by the U.S. Capitol Police and Secret Service.
- Pending Penalties: Maximum of 10 years in prison, $250,000 fine, and 3 years supervised release.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Troy Lamont Rishell charged with?
Troy Lamont Rishell was charged with making threatening voicemails to a U.S. Representative, which included threats of assault and murder.
What are the potential penalties for Rishell?
If sentenced to the maximum penalty, Rishell could face up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
Who conducted the investigation?
The investigation was carried out by the United States Capitol Police and the Secret Service.
How long was the timeframe of the threatening voicemails?
The voicemails were left over a period from February 28 to May 20.
Chart: Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Troy Lamont Rishell |
| Age | 48 |
| Location | York County, Pennsylvania |
| Charge | Threatening a U.S. Representative |
| Investigation | U.S. Capitol Police and Secret Service |
| Plea Agreement | Guilty |
| Potential Sentencing | Up to 10 years in prison, $250,000 fine, 3 years supervised release |
