Woman Accused Of Phoning In Bomb Threat To Tampa Courthouse

TAMPA, FL — The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested a woman after deputies said she called in threats against the Hillsborough County Courthouse.

According to the sheriff's office, on Wednesday just before 11 a.m., Dianna Mervil, 32, of Riverview called 911 and told the dispatcher a "device" had been placed in the courthouse because her brother's brother-in-law had received four life sentences.

The sheriff's bomb squad, K-9 deputies and patrol deputies were dispatched immediately to the scene. Approximately 30 minutes after the call came in, Mervil dialed 911 again and made the same threat to a dispatcher with the Tampa Police Department.

Using cellular technology, deputies located Mervil and arrested her outside the courthouse. Mervil admitted to deputies she made the false threats.

"We treat every threat seriously and will not hesitate to activate our assets to secure the location and arrest whoever is trying to instill fear and create disorder," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "I am proud of our deputies who acted swiftly to locate this suspect and ensure everyone inside the building was safe. May this incident serve as a reminder that these calls are not taken lightly and will result in serious criminal charges."

Mervil was charged with misuse of wireless 911 system (more than $100) and false report of a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction.

Hillsborough County Sheriff

Dianna Mervil