UPDATE: A disturbing death threat against Roberto Alves, the first-term mayor of Danbury, Connecticut, has sent shockwaves through the community. The threat, which included alarming Nazi imagery and a direct warning from a caller, has prompted immediate security measures at City Hall.
On June 4, 2023, a caller identified as Troy L. Kennard, 54, unleashed a tirade against the mayor’s policies regarding homeless shelters and immigration. During the call to Danbury City Hall, Kennard allegedly proclaimed, “I can send my guys; you won’t have a mayor,” and ominously referenced past violence, stating, “You saw what happened in Colorado.” The mayor’s aide swiftly reported the incident to the police, leading to heightened security around Alves.
Authorities quickly located Kennard at a local homeless shelter the same day. He was charged with second-degree threatening and has pleaded not guilty to the Class A misdemeanor. Police discovered that Kennard possessed an active pistol permit and subsequently obtained a warrant to search for weapons, uncovering 22 firearms and over 6,000 bullets in a storage unit. This alarming arsenal included visible Nazi flags and a figurine resembling Adolf Hitler, intensifying fears surrounding the threat.
Alves expressed his concern over the implications of such threats, especially those entwined with Nazi symbolism. “That’s the scary part,” he remarked. “Those swastikas change the narrative.” The mayor has continued to fulfill his duties amidst the ongoing threat, emphasizing the importance of resilience in public life.
In the wake of this incident, Danbury police have enhanced the mayor’s security protocols. With a court appearance scheduled for Wednesday, Kennard has been ordered to wear a GPS bracelet, stay away from City Hall, and enter a treatment program. Alves has chosen to respect the court’s decisions while engaging a local lawyer to act as his victim advocate during the proceedings.
Alves, who was born in Portugal and immigrated to the United States in 1989, has risen rapidly in the political ranks, becoming a prominent member of Connecticut’s Democratic Party. His story of overcoming adversity and embracing American ideals has made him a target for hate, as evidenced by Kennard’s threats.
As a leader actively preparing for the upcoming elections, Alves remains undeterred. He continues to participate in community events, reinforcing his commitment to public service despite the looming threat to his safety.
The incident highlights a growing concern over threats faced by public officials in the current political climate. As the situation develops, many in Danbury and beyond are left reflecting on the implications of such hatred and the importance of community solidarity in the face of fear.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
