News Summary
William Joseph Wheeler, 50, has been indicted on multiple felony counts for allegedly using social media to transmit violent threats against classmates and coworkers. The indictment includes four counts under 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). Wheeler, who sent threats from Panama, is accused of threatening to use firearms against specific individuals. He faces up to five years in prison for each charge. The FBI investigated the case, emphasizing the dangers of online threats and the responsibilities of social media users.
Newport News, Va. – A federal grand jury has indicted 50-year-old William Joseph Wheeler on multiple felony counts for allegedly using social media platforms to transmit violent threats against classmates and coworkers. The indictment, unsealed last week, includes four counts of transmitting threats to kidnap or injure others, which violates 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). If convicted, Wheeler faces up to five years in prison for each charge.
Wheeler is accused of sending these threats from Panama between February and March of 2024 and 2025. He reportedly made references to firearms and conveyed an intention to harm specific individuals, including former classmates and a previous coworker. One of the messages outlined his desire to “take care of some unfinished business,” claiming to possess a “12 gauge autoloader, a Glock, and lots of ammo.” Another threatening post specifically targeted a former classmate, including their picture alongside a declaration to “put an end” to that individual.
In addition to these threats, Wheeler allegedly directed graphic threats towards a former coworker, asserting that he would kill her, her husband, and their daughters. He even purportedly offered money to have them “taken care of.” These serious accusations highlight the potential dangers associated with online threats and underscore a growing concern regarding the use of social media to incite violence.
The case against Wheeler was investigated by the FBI, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Osyf leading the prosecution. Federal law allows for charges to be filed in the district where the threatening communications are received. Although Wheeler sent the messages from outside the U.S., the prosecution is occurring in Newport News due to the fact that several intended victims reside in the Eastern District of Virginia.
As of the latest court records, Wheeler has not yet been taken into federal custody. The process of apprehending him and bringing him to trial will be closely monitored, given the nature of the allegations and the implications for community safety.
The incident serves as a critical reminder of the potential consequences of using digital platforms irresponsibly. With the prevalence of social media in everyday life, the risk of individuals abusing these platforms for malicious intent has become an increasing concern for law enforcement and community members alike.
Threatening behavior, especially that which involves discussions of firearms and violence, can evoke fear and anxiety within communities. The legal system is stepping in to address these types of circumstances through stringent laws and designated frameworks aimed at protecting individuals from potential harm.
The case will continue to evolve as the legal proceedings unfold, and affected individuals may be left grappling with the emotional fallout from such serious threats. Federal authorities are expected to present their findings and arguments in court as they work to ensure justice is served in this troubling situation.
As the investigation progresses, it remains essential for communities to stay informed about the implications of online behavior and the legal ramifications it can entail. The Newport News case of William Joseph Wheeler underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions on social media platforms.
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Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- Newport RI
- Providence Journal
- Fox News
- WTKR
- Wikipedia: Online Threats
- Google Search: online violence threats
- Google Scholar: threatening behavior and social media
- Encyclopedia Britannica: cyberbullying
- Google News: threat investigations
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
