A Virginia man has been apprehended after allegedly making threats to State Delegate Kim Taylor. The Dinwiddie County Sheriff’s Office reports that Taylor’s campaign manager received a politically motivated death threat via text on the morning of September 25. In response, the sheriff’s department was promptly alerted to the situation.
Authorities arrested 33-year-old Michael Ray Stawmeyer of Dinwiddie at 2:15 p.m. He faces charges of communicating threats of death or bodily injury, classified as a class 5 felony. Stawmeyer is currently being held without bond at Meherrin River Regional Jail in Alberta, awaiting his initial court appearance in the Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Delegate Taylor’s spokesperson, Jacklyn Washington, assured the public that Taylor is safe and appreciative of law enforcement’s swift action. Taylor remains committed to her duties and refuses to be sidetracked by any threats.
Taylor’s previous political rival, Kim Adams, expressed her support in a statement, emphasizing the importance of condemning threats and violence in politics. She commended the sheriff’s department for its quick response and voiced her relief that both Taylor and her family are safe.
This incident highlights the continued concern over safety in political arenas and the need for decisive actions to protect public officials and maintain peace in communities.