News Summary
A 58-year-old Orlando resident, Salvatore Russotto, has been indicted on serious federal charges for making online threats against Alina Habba, the U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. The threats included violent phrases and have been classified as true threats of violence. Russotto could face up to ten years in prison if convicted. The FBI and the U.S. Marshals Service conducted an investigation, leading to his arrest and subsequent release on bond with strict conditions. The case highlights the serious consequences of online threats directed at public officials.
ORLANDO – Salvatore Russotto, a 58-year-old resident of Orlando, has been indicted by federal authorities on serious charges related to online threats made against Alina Habba, the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey. The indictment, announced by U.S. Attorneys for the Middle District of Florida and unsealed on Thursday, includes two federal charges: threatening to injure or kill a federal official and retaliating against a federal law enforcement officer. If convicted, Russotto could face a maximum of ten years in federal prison.
The threatening statements were made via Russotto’s personal online account on May 19, 2025. The messages were alarming, featuring phrases such as “A slow painful death for HABBA,” “Eliminate HABBA. 86 Traitor. Death penalty for all traitors,” and “I HOPE YOU DIE A PAINFUL DEATH.” Authorities have classified these remarks as “true threats of violence,” reflecting a concerning trend of aggressive rhetoric directed at government officials in the digital arena.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offices in Newark and Tampa, in conjunction with the U.S. Marshals Service, have undertaken the investigation into Russotto’s actions. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kara Wick is spearheading the prosecution as the case progresses through the legal system.
In light of the threats, investigators acted swiftly after identifying Russotto as the suspect and linking the threats back to his Orlando residence. He was arrested shortly thereafter and released on bond under strict conditions, including a prohibition on accessing social media and the requirement to surrender his passport. His initial court appearance occurred soon after his arrest, during which a judge established the conditions of his release.
The indictment also notes that Russotto’s threats were motivated by perceived actions taken by Habba in her official capacity. Notably, the threats surfaced amidst Habba’s announcement regarding prosecutorial action against U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver in a separate case, hinting at a possible connection or reaction to these public developments.
Legal experts emphasize that threats made online carry the same legal weight as threats communicated in person, underscoring the seriousness of Russotto’s actions. Prosecutors have yet to provide specific information regarding any prior connections between Russotto and Habba or her office, leaving questions about the underlying motive for his threats unanswered.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, an arraignment for Russotto has been scheduled for July 3. The case is anticipated to draw attention given the increasing incidents of violent rhetoric aimed at public officials, raising concerns among law enforcement regarding the safety of those working in government roles.
This indictment serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of online threats and the legal repercussions that can follow. With growing scrutiny on online behavior and its impact on public officials, the actions taken by federal authorities illustrate a commitment to addressing threats of violence and ensuring accountability.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 35 Orlando
- Wikipedia: Threatening Communications
- Fox 13 News
- Google Search: Alina Habba
- Florida Daily
- Google Scholar: Online Threats to Government Officials
- Orlando Sentinel
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Online Threats
- WFTV
- Google News: Salvatore Russotto
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange 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 Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
