NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Federal authorities have announced the arrest of 22-year-old Penelope Convertino, who is accused of issuing violent threats against U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) earlier this year.
Details of the Threat
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee, Convertino allegedly left a disturbing voicemail message at Senator Blackburn’s Nashville office on May 30, 2025. In the profanity-laced message, she explicitly threatened to kill Senator Blackburn by shooting her and described, in graphic terms, an intention to carry out the act on national television.
The chilling message immediately raised security concerns for both the Senator and her staff.
FBI Apprehension
Following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Convertino was taken into custody on Thursday, August 28, 2025.
Acting United States Attorney Robert E. McGuire strongly condemned the threats, stating:
“Our public officials should be able to perform their duties without facing abhorrent death threats. Threatening public officials with lethal violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We will take decisive action against those who issue such violent threats.”
Charges and Potential Sentence
Convertino has been formally charged with making a threat to murder a federal official. If convicted, she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing, with the FBI continuing to review evidence related to the case.
Broader Context
Threats against public officials have been a growing concern nationwide, with federal law enforcement stressing the importance of protecting both elected leaders and their staff members from intimidation and harassment.
The prosecution of Convertino underscores the federal government’s commitment to pursuing individuals who issue credible death threats against lawmakers.
Next Steps
Convertino is expected to make her initial court appearance in the coming days, where further details about the case, including bail considerations, may be determined. The case is being prosecuted under the supervision of Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire.
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