Oklahoma Resident Sentenced for Threatening to Murder a Member of Congress

TULSA, Okla. - While death threats against federal officials continue to rise, a Jay resident was sentenced today after entering a plea of guilty to threatening to assault, kidnap, and murder United States Representative Josh Brecheen and to knowingly engaging in a course of conduct that caused, attempted to cause, or would be reasonable expected to cause substantial emotional distress to Congressman Brecheen and his family.

U.S. District Judge Gustavo A. Gelpi sentenced Chad Allen Haeberle, 35, to 52 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release on each conviction, to be served concurrently.

"This case, as well as recent attacks targeting public figures serve as a stark reminder that political violence and intimidation have no place in our nation." said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar. "Today's sentence reflects a clear message: those who threaten public servants, attempt to instill fear, or seek to influence our democratic process through violence will be held fully accountable. The health of our democracy depends on a political process free from coercion or fear. We remain committed to protecting that foundation and ensuring that all public officials can carry out their duties free from violent threats."

According to a sentencing memorandum filed by the United States, Haeberle sent multiple threatening e-mails to Congressman Brecheen between December 23, 2024 and July 23, 2025 in an effort to further Haeberle's political agenda and retaliate against Congressman Brecheen for exercising his official duties. Haeberle self-identified one threat as "containing specific terrorist threats" against Congressman Brecheen. Haeberle also specified that the threats made of murder should be taken "as a serious and credible threat." Haeberle had previously encouraged violent political acts to wage class warfare and endorsed politically motivated murder in social media postings.

Haeberle was arrested by the United States Marshals Northern Oklahoma Violent Crimes Task Force in July 2025. Even while in custody on that arrest, Haeberle repeated threatening rhetoric against Congressman Brecheen. A federal grand jury indicted Haeberle in August 2025.

Court documents also referenced several other recent threats and acts of political violence. Haeberle will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.