DETROIT (AP) - An ex-convict charged with using the internet to threaten police attending the funeral of a Detroit officer is heading to prison.
Deshawn Linton was sentenced Friday to 15 months in prison after pleading guilty to a charge of dispelling false information and hoaxes. Prosecutors dismissed other charges.
The FBI says Lanton threatened to “drop a bomb” on a St. Clair Shores church Sept. 23 during the funeral of Sgt. Ken Steil, who was shot while chasing a suspect. Investigators say the threat was made on Facebook as the service was streamed live.
Court-appointed lawyer Rafael Villarruel has said Lanton was exercising his right to free speech.
Authorities say Lanton has convictions for fleeing and resisting police, and other crimes.
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