Urgent Threat to Mayor in CT: 22 Guns Seized After Nazi Call
UPDATE: An alarming death threat against Roberto Alves, the mayor of Danbury, Connecticut, has triggered heightened security measures after a disturbing phone call on June 4, 2023. The threat, laden with Nazi imagery, has raised urgent concerns about the safety of public officials in the current climate of intolerance.
During the call to Danbury City Hall, Troy L. Kennard, 54, unleashed a tirade against Mayor Alves, who is an immigrant, expressing his grievances about homeless shelters and immigrants. “You wonder why people do crazy things,” Kennard reportedly threatened. “I can send my guys; you won’t have a mayor.” He ominously referenced a violent incident in Colorado, heightening fears over his intentions.
The mayor’s aide, alarmed by the threat, immediately contacted law enforcement, leading to a swift police response. Officers found Kennard later that day outside a homeless shelter in Danbury. He was charged with second-degree threatening and pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor.
Authorities discovered that Kennard possesses an active pistol permit, prompting them to obtain a warrant for a weapons search. In a shocking find, police seized 22 firearms and over 6,000 bullets from a storage unit in Danbury. Additionally, police reported the presence of two Nazi flags and a doll representing Adolf Hitler during the search, intensifying the gravity of the situation.
Mayor Alves, reflecting on the threat, stated, “That’s the scary part,” emphasizing how the Nazi symbols “change the narrative.” This incident underscores the dangers public officials face in a time marked by rising extremism and hostility.
Following the threat, Danbury police have increased security measures for Mayor Alves, ensuring his safety amid these unsettling developments. The mayor, a rising star in Connecticut’s Democratic Party, has previously addressed the challenges of public service and the risks associated with it.
Kennard’s history raises further concerns; he has previously been arrested for refusing to comply with a protective order and has exhibited anti-government sentiments. After being held on a $50,000 bond, he was released with conditions, including wearing a GPS bracelet and maintaining distance from City Hall and Alves. He is expected back in court on Wednesday.
The mayor’s journey is one of resilience; Alves immigrated from Portugal and became a U.S. citizen in 2017. He has dedicated his career to public service, advocating for inclusion and opportunity in Danbury. His story stands in stark contrast to the hate-driven actions of individuals like Kennard, illustrating the ongoing struggle against bigotry.
As the situation develops, Alves continues to engage with the community, undeterred by the threats against him. His commitment to serving as mayor and a candidate for re-election remains steadfast, embodying a defiance against the remnants of hatred that history has shown can resurface.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for vigilance against threats to public safety and the importance of supporting leaders who embody hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.
