SENECA FALLS, NY — A 24-year-old man was arrested early Wednesday morning in connection with threats made on social media related to the town’s New Year’s Eve celebration.
Mekhi L. Russ, of Seneca Falls, was taken into custody at approximately 7:22 a.m. Dec. 31 without incident, according to Police Chief Timothy A. Snyder.
Russ has been charged with intimidating a victim or witness in the third degree and making a terroristic threat.
The arrest followed an investigation that began after police received a harassment report at approximately 2:35 a.m. Wednesday.
Police said Russ allegedly posted threats on social media indicating an intent to cause harm to members of the community attending the annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop event in Seneca Falls.
The investigation also revealed that Russ allegedly attempted to intimidate a witness connected to a separate, ongoing criminal matter.
The Seneca Falls Police Department worked with the Seneca County District Attorney’s Office to investigate the matter and locate Russ.
Russ is being held at the Seneca County Correctional Facility pending arraignment in Seneca County Centralized Arraignment Part Court.
Police said there is no credible threat to public safety, including to those planning to attend the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop event.
The department said it will maintain a visible police presence at the event.
