The deputy mayor of Los Angeles, Brian Williams, has been placed on leave after an investigation allegedly determined he made a bomb threat against City Hall earlier this year. The FBI searched his Pasadena, California home on Tuesday in connection with the investigation.
According to a statement from LA Mayor Karen Bass’s office, Williams was immediately placed on administrative leave after the search. The Mayor’s office takes this matter very seriously, said deputy mayor of communications Zach Seidl.
The bomb threat was reported in September, and the Los Angeles Police Department investigated the matter, concluding that there was no immediate danger to the building. However, they referred the case to the FBI for further investigation, which determined that Williams was likely the source of the threat.
The LAPD said in a statement, “Due to the department’s working relationship with Mr. Williams, the investigation was referred to the FBI. The FBI remains the investigating agency.”
The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information has been released. Williams began working in Bass’s office in March 2023, tasked with working with the police and fire departments, as well as other critical safety departments. Prior to joining the Mayor’s team, he was the executive director of the Los Angeles County Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission for seven years.