From Public Servant to Public Scandal: Former LA Deputy Mayor Brian Williams Sentenced for Faking Bomb Threat

In a turn of events that saw a former pillar of Los Angeles city government face a judge, Brian Williams, once the Deputy Mayor for infrastructure, has been sentenced to two years of probation and a significant $5,000 fine. The penalty comes after his admission to making a chillingly disruptive false bomb threat against Los Angeles City Hall.

The incident, which unfolded on December 14, 2022, caused a rapid and widespread panic.

Williams, who was 60 at the time, made a call to the City Hall's general information line, claiming he was inside the building and ominously stating that a bomb would detonate within 10 minutes. This grave warning triggered an immediate, full-scale evacuation of City Hall and several adjacent buildings, throwing the civic heart of Los Angeles into disarray and abruptly halting a City Council meeting.

The severity of his actions quickly led to his resignation from his high-profile position shortly after the threat was made public.

Williams subsequently pleaded no contest to one felony count of making a false report of a bomb. However, in a move that drew scrutiny, the charge was later reduced to a misdemeanor by Judge Richard M. Goul during the sentencing hearing.

Beyond the probation and fine, Williams' sentence includes 100 hours of community service, a measure aimed at contributing positively to the community he disrupted.

Furthermore, a two-year stay-away order from City Hall has been imposed, effectively barring him from the very building where he once held significant influence.

Prosecutors had initially argued for a more severe punishment, including jail time, emphasizing the profound disruption and fear his actions instilled.

They underscored the seriousness of a bomb threat against a major governmental building. Yet, Judge Goul ultimately opted for a lighter sentence, citing Williams' extensive history of public service and his clean record prior to this incident as mitigating factors. Williams' attorney also highlighted that his client was experiencing 'severe stress' at the time of the incident, a point that likely played a role in the judge's decision.

Through his legal representation, Williams conveyed a deep regret for his actions, expressing profound apologies for the chaos and alarm he caused.

The sentencing serves as a stark reminder that even those in positions of power are not immune to legal repercussions when their actions threaten public safety and order.