An Independence man who made threats that included racial slurs to a Jackson County judge has been sentenced to 11 years in prison.
Michael A. Deblois, 44, was convicted in July of tampering with a judicial officer and harassment motivated by discrimination to frighten or disturb another person, according to Michael Mansur, director of communications at the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office.
Deblois, who is white, was arrested on March 26 for allegedly leaving a series of vulgar voicemails for a Jackson County judge that contained racial slurs and threats of an “eye for an eye.” Deblois left his full name and phone number on a series of calls made between March 25 and 26 where he used the N-word in referring to 16th Circuit Judge Kenneth R. Garrett III, according previous Star reporting.
Over the course of a day, prosecutors alleged Deblois left more than a dozen racist voicemails. Rambling excerpts, cited by authorities in charging documents, include a volley of profanities surrounding complaints of “reverse discrimination,” “government corruption” and his “fraudulent homeowners association.” They also mention home foreclosure.
“It’s not fun when people draw their own conclusion just outside the court of law. I’m not doing anything to a single member of your [expletive] staff that you didn’t do to me first. Eye for an eye, makes you wonder what I do have planned,” Deblois said on one recording.
Judge Garrett makes a statement regarding the case
On Friday, Garrett made a statement in court. He said he works hard to follow the rule of law and to ensure everyone is treated fairly.
“Without confidence in our system of government, our republic will fail and chaos will ensue,” Garrett said.
Threats to public servants, Garrett said, should not be tolerated, as it undermines and stifles government action.
“This is a sad state of affairs in today’s society for those who are attempting to do their job and serve the public. Instead of going through the proper channels to challenge a public servant’s decision, citizens are now bypassing this avenue for relief and proceed to threaten them with violence,” he said. “This behavior must stop for government to function properly, and we as citizens must begin to air our grievances with civility and humility instead of discord and chaos. “
Amanda Smith is a dedicated U.S. correspondent with a passion for uncovering the stories that shape the nation. With a background in political science, she provides in-depth analysis and insightful commentary on domestic affairs, ensuring readers are well-informed about the latest developments across the United States.
