Ryan Michael Dewitte Johnston, 38, of Lenoir, Caldwell County, North Carolina, United States is accused of calling the police department of Buffalo, Erie County, New York, USA multiple times in August 2023. He allegedly made racist threats toward people in the Buffalo.
On August 18, 2023, Johnston allegedly called a member of the Buffalo Police Department and gave his real name. The Lenoir man allegedly became noticeably angry and called the department from a cell phone more than 50 times that day.
During those calls, Johnston allegedly told the department he would go to Buffalo to shoot officers. The Lenoir resident allegedly used a racial slur and said he would kill any black people.
On August 26, 2023, Johnston allegedly called the department again and made similar threats to police officers. The Federal Bureau of Investigation began an investigation and tracked the phone number to Johnston, which led to his arrest.
On October 23, 2023, Johnson was booked into the Catawba County Jail in Newton, Catawba County, North Carolina. He is facing federal charges for making the threats.
Lenoir was established in 1841 and incorporated in 1851. It is the county seat of Caldwell County.
Former National Football League player Nick Easton, 31, was born in Lenoir. Joseph L. Gibbons is the incumbent mayor of the city.
CONAN Daily 