Savannah Residents Arrested in Connection with Two Separate Bomb Threats

SAVANNAH, GA—Harold Childers, 36, and Lavontay Gatson, 20, both of Savannah, were arrested on federal charges last week on charges arising from two separate bomb threats. Childers was charged with making a false statement to FBI agents in connection with a September 18, 2012 bomb threat at Southern States Phosphates on East President Street in Savannah. Gatson was charged with telephoning a Walmart in Savannah and making a bomb threat on March 2, 2013.

The charge against Childers carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Gatson’s charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. U.S. Attorney Ed Tarver emphasized that a criminal complaint is only an accusation and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Both arrests arose out of investigations by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Charlie Bourne is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. For additional information, please contact First Assistant United States Attorney James D. Durham at (912) 201-2547.