NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A Michigan man was indicted Friday by a federal grand jury on a charge he phoned in a bomb threat to the Superdome during the New Orleans Saints' playoff win over the Detroit Lions in January.
Shawn H. Payton, 34, of Jackson, Mich., is charged with one count of sending threatening communications through interstate commerce, a charge that carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The FBI arrested Payton last month on a criminal complaint. He was freed on bond. Payton is scheduled to make his initial court appearance in New Orleans on Feb. 14.
Prosecutors said Payton called the Superdome reception desk during the Jan.7 game and claimed there was a bomb in the building.
In a second call, which was recorded, he allegedly said, "Hi, I want you to relay a message to the sideline. If your stupid Southern team keeps winning, there will be reper.severe consequences, okay?"
Prosecutors said Payton admitted making the phone calls when he was questioned by the FBI.
"We will not tolerate anyone causing the waste of our precious law enforcement resources or the potential panic of our citizens through the communication of threats," U.S. Attorney Jim Letten said in a statement.
