Brian K. Williams, the former Deputy Mayor of Public Safety for Los Angeles, has agreed to plead guilty to making a false bomb threat against City Hall in October 2024. Federal prosecutors announced that Williams, 31, will face one felony count of making an explosives threat, which carries a potential 10-year federal prison sentence.
Details of the False Bomb Threat
On October 3, 2024, Williams sent a text message to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and other city officials, claiming that he had received a threatening call stating that a bomb had been placed in City Hall due to the city’s support of Israel. He reported that the caller mentioned placing the bomb in the rotunda. Williams stated that he had contacted the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), prompting a search of the building, which found no explosive devices.
Investigations later revealed that Williams had fabricated the threat. He had used the Google Voice app on his personal phone to make the call, which he then showed to officers as evidence. The FBI conducted a search of Williams’ home in December 2024, and he was placed on administrative leave from his position.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences
Williams is scheduled to appear in federal court in downtown Los Angeles in the coming weeks. The charge of making an explosives threat is a felony offense that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. His attorney, Dmitry Gorin, has stated that Williams maintains his innocence and intends to fight the allegations. However, the plea agreement indicates an acknowledgment of guilt.
Background and Career
Before his tenure as Deputy Mayor of Public Safety, Williams served as the executive director of the Los Angeles County Civilian Oversight Commission from 2016 to 2023. He also held a previous deputy mayor position under Mayor James Hahn, overseeing departments such as Transportation, Public Works, and Information Technology. Williams has a background in law, having served as an assistant city attorney in Los Angeles.
His appointment as Deputy Mayor of Public Safety in 2023 placed him in charge of critical safety departments, including the LAPD and emergency services. During his time in office, Williams represented the mayor at various events and was involved in significant public safety initiatives.