An 18-year-old man was arrested in Vernal after posting a comment and video on Facebook directed at a local judge. The Facebook comment was posted on an article about a local sentencing in a court case. Along with a video of himself retrieving and discharging a pistol, Nicholas Smith Jr stated, “First time I see the judge I’ll show him something cool [Emoji face] they all look kinda chubby and slow.” According to the Affidavit of Probable Cause, the judge became concerned for his safety after viewing the Facebook post and comment. Officers spoke with Smith and based on his statement and the content of the Facebook comment, “it did not appear that the video was intended to be viewed by the Victim as lighthearted or casual firearm-related content.” Nicholas Smith was arrested and charged with 3rd Degree Felony Threat Against a Judge.
