FBI arrests man accused of threatening staff of Congressman John Lewis

Dante Antoine Rosser appeared anxious and a bit confused as Federal Judge Alan Baverman explained the serious charges against him.

According to FBI agents, Rosser called the Atlanta office for Congressman John Lewis 46 times between February 22nd and 23rd.

Dante Rosser allegedly told Atl staffer for @repjohnlewis, “I will blow your head off. You’re dead.” 42 y.o. is now in federal custody. pic.twitter.com/gBIIfn6a2Y

— Portia Bruner (@PortiaFOX5) March 2, 2017

In the criminal complaint, investigators say harassing and threatening calls to the office on Peachtree street downtown started in January of 2016 with Rosser allegedly demanding Congressman Lewis seek financial reparations for him and his family.

DanteRosser heads to Fed Court this hour. Atl man (seen here in prior mugshot) is accused of making violent threats against @repjohnlewis. pic.twitter.com/xozJAZg6s0

— Portia Bruner (@PortiaFOX5) March 2, 2017

But FBI spokesman Steve Emmett told Fox 5’s Portia Bruner, Rosser crossed the line on February 23rd when he allegedly told a staffer quote, “I will blow your head off. You’re dead. You’re dead.”

“It’s one thing to get emotional or worked up when you’re talking to elected officials and staff members, but that’s a serious threat,” said Emmett.

In the criminal complaint, investigators say Rosser also suggested staffers should be concerned for their safety “since they have to leave the office.”

Federal agents arrested the 42-year-old at his Southwest Atlanta home on Peyton Place Thursday morning and charged him with making threats against a U.S. official.

Fulton County jail records show he’s been arrested several times since 1991 for crimes including cocaine possession, abandonment of a minor child and simple battery.

Judge Baverman appointed Nicole Kaplan to represent Rosser in this case, then ordered Rosser remain in custody. A preliminary and detention hearing is scheduled for March 6 at 11 a.m.

visit main article