Federal authorities are currently investigating a series of anonymous pizza deliveries sent to the homes of U.S. lawmakers and their protectors across the country, sparking significant security concerns.
Both Democrats and Republicans have received unexpected pizza shipments, with House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office confirming the situation.
These unintended deliveries have been reportedly directed at both current and former leadership of the U.S. Capitol Police, raising alarms about the potential for these actions to be a menacing message.
The Capitol Police described the deliveries as ‘troubling’ in a statement to ABC News, emphasizing the heightened threat environment that public officials face.
“Violence and threats, of any kind, targeted at elected officials will not be tolerated,” the Capitol Police stated, announcing that they are collaborating with various federal, state, and local partners to address the issue.
Although many of the unsolicited pizzas were delivered last weekend—coinciding with a violent political incident in Minnesota—sources indicated that the deliveries began prior to this attack.
This Minnesota shooting left one state lawmaker and her husband dead, with the alleged assailant, Vance Luther Boelter, captured shortly after and revealing additional potential targets in writings found by law enforcement.
Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson characterized the ongoing problem of violent political extremism as a growing trend in the U.S.
According to congressional sources, there is a palpable sense of fear among lawmakers regarding these pizza deliveries.
Concerns regarding the unsolicited pizzas were discussed in a recent call involving congressional officials and House Sergeant at Arms William McFarland.
Due to the ongoing investigation, the U.S. Capitol Police refrained from providing additional details on the deliveries to protect the integrity of the case and to minimize the risk of copycat actions.
In a separate briefing on security measures for lawmakers, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed his appreciation for the efforts of U.S. Capitol Police and the Senate sergeant at arms during difficult times.
Law enforcement officials have noted that the anonymous pizza deliveries to various public officials have been an established concern in recent years.
These actions are believed to be a means of intimidating recipients by demonstrating that senders know their residential locations.
Federal Judge Esther Salas, whose son was tragically murdered at their home in 2020, reported that similar pizza deliveries have also targeted judges nationwide.
Salas pointed out that pizzas delivered to judges, including those using her son’s name as a sender, symbolize an invasion of privacy and an alarming awareness of where these officials reside.
The ongoing activities highlight a disturbing trend in the treatment of elected officials and public figures within the contemporary political landscape.
As the investigation proceeds, officials emphasize the necessity of vigilance and comprehensive security measures to protect those in public service.
image source from：6abc
