FBI Cleveland
Public Affairs Officer Susan Licate
August 24, 2020

Officials Announce the Arrest of Thomas G. Bares for Threatening Communications

The Cleveland Division of the FBI, the Gates Mills Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office—Northern District of Ohio, announce the arrest of Thomas G. Bares, age 53, of Concord Township, Ohio.

In July 2020, Bares, a former Gilmour Academy volunteer employee, came to the attention of Gilmour Academy Administration with his posting of allegations on various social media platforms about Gilmour Academy, a private Catholic school located in Gates Mills, Ohio. Gates Mills Police Department was notified by Gilmour Academy administration.

According to the federal complaint, on August 18th and August 21st, 2020, Bares’ social media posts included the following, “Spotlight on Gilmour Academy” with a photo of a handgun and ammunition, he continued, “I have no fear of creating a holy war……” Pictures of administrative staff and references to a sergeant employed with Gates Mills Police Department were included indicating “all hell will break loose.” A video titled, “It is Finished” showing Bares with a handgun stating, “I ain’t gonna lay down…” was also posted. Another video posted shows Bares stating “Guess what Gilmour Academy, now all y’all gotta deal with some dangerous”. The video indicated that Bares was in a recreational vehicle park and campground in Rapid City, South Dakota, on those dates.

A federal arrest warrant for interstate threatening communications was obtained for Thomas G. Bares. Bares was placed into custody by FBI agents in Rapid City, South Dakota, on Saturday, August 22, 2020, without incident.

Bares will have an initial appearance in federal court today, August 24, 2020. This is considered an ongoing investigation and additional details cannot be provided.

A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.