DALLAS — United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould today announced that a federal jury convicted Phillip Daniel Peterson, 56, of Dallas, on six counts of transmitting threatening communications in interstate commerce.
“Today’s guilty verdict affirms that violent threats carry real consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould. “Cyber‑based threats are real threats, and those who misuse online communications to sow fear should expect meaningful federal consequences. We are grateful for the jury’s careful consideration and remain committed to protecting the public from those that misuse technology to harm or frighten others.”
“Cases of this nature can make life difficult, and even downright scary, for innocent victims," said Acting United States Marshal, Northern District of Texas Sean Malecha. "The United States Marshals Service will always leverage its talented investigators, vast resources, and strong partnership with the FBI to investigate threats and bring perpetrators to justice."
According to evidence presented at trial, Peterson sent a series of threatening emails on June 23, 2023, directing violent language toward multiple victims. The following six communicated threats transmitted across state lines resulted in each of the convicted counts.
“M.M., I am going to f**k you up.”
“I am going to put your f**king head on a stick.”
“I am going to a** f**k you M.M. you f**king c*nt.” “M.M. I am going to f**k you in the a** you stupid c*nt.”
“I am going to f**k both J.H. and D.W. in the a**.”
“You stupid f**gots better know I know where you live.”
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Jan. 11, 2027, before U.S. District Judge David C. Godbey. Peterson faces up to five years in federal prison per count on each of the six counts. The U.S. Marshals Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ted Hocter and Caroline Poore from the National Security Section prosecuted the case.