Man Admits Making Threat To Blow Up Dodson School

Jacob Edwin Wilson, a transient, admitted to perpetrating a false threat against the Dodson school, confirmed by U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich on Jan. 8. Wilson pleaded guilty to disseminating false information and perpetuating hoaxes, as outlined in an indictment. Wilson could face a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release if convicted.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris is presiding over the case. The sentencing, scheduled for May 9, will consider the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other pertinent statutory factors. Wilson remains detained pending further legal procedures.

Incident Details: Threats and Law Enforcement Response

According to court documents, the alleged incident occurred on Aug. 29, 2023. Wilson contacted the Blaine County 911 emergency line and the Dodson school, which is close to the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. During the calls, Wilson claimed an imminent threat, stating he was "about to blow Dodson school up." Law enforcement promptly responded, evacuating students and staff via buses to a nearby church parking lot. Responders from various agencies, including the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, Malta Fire Department, and U.S. Border Patrol, established a security perimeter around the school and conducted a thorough search for explosives, ultimately finding none.

Subsequent Actions and Arrest

Simultaneously, Wilson made another 911 call requesting transportation off the reservation from an undisclosed location, specifying a need for a ride excluding the Fort Belknap police. Tracing the call to the individual’s residence within the Fort Belknap Reservation, law enforcement located and subsequently arrested Wilson.

Prosecution and Collaborative Investigation

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey K. Starnes is overseeing the prosecution of the case. Collaborative efforts from the FBI, Fort Belknap Tribal Police, Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol, and Malta Fire Department were instrumental in conducting the investigation.