Defense Strategies For Bomb Threat Allegations In Rockland County

Authorities are taking bomb threats very seriously these days, and anyone accused of this offense faces considerable consequences. This was made clear after two men in their early 20s were charged with felonies after making a bomb threat to their local Walmart in Rockland. If you or your child has been accused of this offense, you might want to get in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Rockland County.

Two Rockland County Men Arrested for Allegedly Threatening to Blow Up Walmart 

In late March of 2025, authorities in Rockland County confirmed that they had arrested two men in connection with a bomb scare at a local Walmart. According to police, two men in their early 20s walked into the Walmart and told shoppers that they had an explosive device. This caused quite a scene, and everyone immediately evacuated from the building.

The police then arrived and deployed K9 units, and it quickly became clear that there were no explosives in the Walmart. Although this came as a relief, the authorities were not satisfied – and they began tracking down the two men responsible for this bomb scare. The FBI then became involved, cooperating with several state law enforcement agencies to identify two suspects. This led to their arrest, and they were both charged with felonies for making terroristic threats.

What Charges Will I Face for Making a Bomb Threat? 

The above case is a clear example of the consequences you might face for making a bomb threat in Rockland County. One of the most common charges in this situation is “making a terroristic threat.” The first step in defending against this charge is gaining a clear understanding of its elements, penalties, and specific wording.

First, you must exhibit an “intent to intimidate or coerce a civilian population.” Because intent is such an important element of this crime, you might want to argue that you never intended to make a terroristic threat. Although some bomb scares are fully intentional, others could be accidental. For example, you might joke about a bomb to your friend when entering a Walmart. If a shopper overhears you and misunderstands the joke, they might report you – even if you never intended to detonate an explosive device.

In New York, making a terroristic threat is a class D felony with a maximum prison sentence of seven years. You might also face a fine of up to $100,000.

Can a Defense Attorney in Rockland County Help With Bomb Threat Allegations? 

If you have been accused of making a bomb threat in Rockland County, you may feel extremely worried about your future. However, an effective defense strategy could be easier to implement than you realize – and you’re not alone in this fight. Speak with Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law to assess your options, explain your situation, and get started with an action plan.

Sources: 

wpdh.com/hudson-valley-walmart-evacuated-2/

nycourts.gov/judges/cji/2-PenalLaw/490/490.20.pdf