In brief
A jury in Milwaukee County has convicted Demetric Scott, 52, on multiple charges, including felony identity theft and witness intimidation, after he threatened President Trump in attempts to get a robbery victim deported. Scott's fraudulent activities while incarcerated raise complex legal and ethical questions, particularly surrounding immigration policies and victim rights.
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A jury found a Wisconsin man guilty Thursday of forging threats against President Donald Trump as part of a scheme to get the victim in a robbery case against him deported.
The Milwaukee County jury determined that 52-year-old Demetric Scott was guilty of felony identity theft and witness intimidation after several hours of deliberation. Scott represented himself during the three-day trial and was immediately taken into custody following the verdicts.
Scott's criminal activities began when he attacked Mexican immigrant Ramon Morales Reyes, stabbing him with a box cutter and stealing his bike in September 2023. Scott was arrested hours after the incident.
While in jail, he wrote letters impersonating Morales Reyes, threatening to kill Trump at a rally. Investigators concluded that Morales Reyes could not have authored these letters, given that he is not proficient in English.
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem criticized Scott's actions, showcasing the letters on social media to highlight his administration's tough stance on immigration.
While Scott was tried for robbery related to the bike incident, the jury acquitted him of the robbery and battery charges but found him guilty of reckless endangerment.
On February 27, he faces up to 26 years in prison during sentencing, with additional charges pending in relation to a prior burglary case.
Morales Reyes, who has been detained by ICE following the incident, remains in the U.S. under a potential deportation order despite not facing criminal charges. He has applied for a U-visa, which would allow him to stay, but the process could stretch over several years.
The case introduces complex layers surrounding victim rights, immigration policies, and the legal ramifications of Scott's actions, adding depth to a story that stretches far beyond the courtroom.