Detroit Man Threatens To Kill Macomb County Judge: Officials

DETROIT — A Detroit man could face 20 years in prison after police said he threatened a Macomb County Judge, Attorney General Dana Nessel announced Thursday.

Marion Williams Richardson, 75, was charged with one count of communicating a false threat of terrorism and one count of malicious use of a telecommunications service, a six-month misdemeanor.

Richardson's arraignment is set for 9 a.m. on May 27 at 41st District Court in Sterling Heights.

Officials said Richardson called the 41-A District Court in Shelby Township and told staff he was going to kill Judge Douglas Shepherd.

Since Shepherd serves in Macomb County, the case was referred to the Department of Attorney General.

"I refuse to disregard threats made against elected officials and their families," Nessel said. "Threatening the safety of a member of the bench is inexcusable, and I will not hesitate to use the resources of my office to prosecute such crimes."