ISP investigation into bomb threat to two state buildings leads to arrest

ISP implements threat response protocol for government employees and facilities

SPRINGFIELD – Following an extensive investigation by the Illinois State Police (ISP) into a bomb threat to two state facilities in Springfield last month, 23-year-old Gabrielle Williams was taken into custody yesterday, May 9, 2024.

On April 22, 2024, the Illinois Department of Human Services received a call from an individual reporting that a bomb had been planted in a public assistance office building and the Illinois State Capitol. This threat was reported to the ISP Statewide Terrorism and Intelligence Center, which implemented the State Agency Facility and Employee (SAFE) Threat Protocol.​ The Secretary of State’s Capitol Police (SOS) and its Hazardous Devices Task Force quickly cleared the Capitol grounds, while ISP and the Springfield Police Department conducted the other State facility secured until the Hazardous Devices Task Force could clear the building. The SAFE Threat Protocol also triggered an investigation by ISP special agents. Using cell phone information and conducting interviews, ISP special agents were able to identify and locate the suspect.

“ISP took immediate action upon receiving information about this bomb threat and implemented our SAFE Threat Protocol,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “By deploying ISP resources as quickly as possible, our special agents can uncover critical information, identify suspects and make arrests.​ ISP and our law enforcement partners in Springfield take any threat seriously and will locate and arrest those responsible for this criminal behavior.”

The SAFE Threat Protocol has three main goals:

• Collect, assess and share threat intelligence

• Investigate threats against public officials, offices and executives

• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of the reported material and results

“I want to thank our Secretary of State Police, the Illinois State Police and the Springfield Police for cooperating with this investigation and making an arrest,” said Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. “We take the security of the Capitol complex and the safety of its employees, officers and visitors extremely seriously.​ We will never tolerate threats of violence and will do everything in our power to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.”

Williams is being held in the Sangamon County Jail pending a detention hearing. A report of clear and present hazards was submitted to the ISP Office of Firearm Safety. A Clear and Present Danger Report is issued when a person poses a danger to themselves or others. ​If the ISP confirms a clear and current threat determination and a person has a firearms possession permit or has applied for one, it will be revoked or rejected.​ ​

ISP thanks the various local, state and federal law enforcement partners, including the US Marshals Service, who assisted in the investigation and arrest of Williams.