Ex-LA Deputy Mayor Admits to Bomb Threat Hoax at City Hall, Faces 10 Years

In a stunning betrayal of public trust, Brian Williams, the former deputy mayor of public safety under Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, has admitted to orchestrating a bomb threat hoax targeting City Hall. The 61-year-old Pasadena resident used a Google Voice app on his personal phone to fake a call to his city-issued device during a virtual meeting on October 3, 2024. Williams then alerted the Los Angeles Police Department’s chief of staff, claiming an anonymous caller threatened to bomb City Hall, citing frustration with the city’s stance on Israel.

Williams escalated the deception by texting Mayor Bass and senior officials, detailing the fabricated threat and prompting a full-scale LAPD search of City Hall. No devices were found, as the threat was a complete fabrication. Federal prosecutors confirmed Williams had no intention of carrying out any attack but emphasized the gravity of his actions. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated, "In an era where political rhetoric can spiral into violence, such threats from public officials are unacceptable."

Williams faces up to 10 years in prison after agreeing to plead guilty to a charge of making threats involving fire and explosives. His actions not only disrupted city operations but also undermined the very safety he was tasked to uphold. FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis remarked, "Williams betrayed the residents of Los Angeles and the integrity of his office."

The incident has left city officials reeling. A spokesperson for Mayor Bass expressed shock and sadness at the revelations. Williams is expected to face court proceedings soon, as Los Angeles grapples with the fallout of this breach of trust.