Morris Plains Man Admits Death Threats Against Commentator

A 47-year-old Morris County man has pleaded guilty to making interstate death threats against a political commentator after becoming enraged by her statements about a rabbi he admired. Haim Braverman of Morris Plains entered his guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Evelyn Padin in Newark federal court on Monday, admitting to transmitting threats in interstate commerce, according to U.S. Attorney Alina Habba.

Braverman faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine when sentenced on September 15. The case marks the latest in a series of prosecutions targeting threats against media figures and public commentators.

Social Media Video Evidence

Court documents revealed that on September 10, 2024, Braverman posted a video of himself on a social media platform wielding a baseball bat while making explicit threats toward the unidentified commentator. The threats were triggered by the commentator’s public statements about a prominent, recently deceased rabbi whom Braverman deeply respected, according to WRNJ Radio.

Prosecutors presented evidence that Braverman directly stated in the video that he would kill the commentator, and included a written comment declaring, “The commentator needs to be killed.” Additional evidence included an audio message Braverman sent to a group chat where he reaffirmed his intentions.

From Arrest to Guilty Plea

Braverman was initially arrested on October 29, 2024, following an investigation by the FBI and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office. He has remained in custody since his first court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III, when he was charged with one count of transmitting a threat in interstate and foreign commerce, according to Daily Voice.

During Monday’s hearing, Braverman acknowledged his actions and accepted responsibility for the threats, which included statements about using a bat against the commentator and explicit death threats.

Increased Focus on Threats Against Public Figures

The case reflects growing concern among law enforcement agencies about threats made against journalists, commentators, and public figures through social media platforms. Federal prosecutors have prioritized such cases amid a documented rise in threats against media personalities.

“We take threats of violence extremely seriously, especially those targeting individuals based on their public statements or commentary,” said U.S. Attorney Habba in a statement following the guilty plea.

Investigation Involved Multiple Agencies

The investigation was conducted jointly by the Federal Bureau of Investigation under Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly and the Morris County Sheriff’s Office led by Sheriff James Gannon.

Authorities noted that the investigation revealed evidence on Braverman’s phone, including messages sent to a group chat called “Real Jewish” where he had previously shared images of weapons including knives and a baseball bat.