Death Threats Made To Boone Health Officials Over Restrictions

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LEBANON, Ind. — Two death threats were sent to the Boone County Health Director this week as the county clamps down to contain the coronavirus.

The county is under a state of emergency meaning many public buildings are either closed or heavily watched by police and county health workers. Most people in Boone County are accepting the new restrictions, but there are those who don’t approve of the changes.

“So, earlier this week, I had received two death threats due to the closings due to the coronavirus,” said Brett Peppin, the Boone County environmental health director, to WISH-TV. “One of them was pretty vulgar.”

The first threat was investigated by Whitestown Police, but they are have not said anything about what their investigation has turned up.

“They stated they knew where I lived and indicated that in their email that they had,” Peppin added. “They certainly were very vicious in that attack toward me and my family, singling out my wife and my child as well. Certainly, unacceptable things during these times.”

The second threat was investigated by Lebanon Police who say it was resolved without an arrest. The threat came from a person upset they could not access the town’s public Wi-Fi.

“People are stressed right now,” said Sgt. Justin Fuston with the Lebanon Police Department. “People are nervous and scared, and maybe a little more on edge than what they would be normally.”

Fuston urged people to be patient and cooperate however they can to make sure everyone stays safe during this pandemic.