Federal Grand Jury Indicts Baton Rouge Man in Connection to LSU Bomb Threat

BATON ROUGE—United States Attorney Donald J. Cazayoux, Jr., announced that the federal grand jury returned an indictment against William Bouvay, Jr., age 42, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in connection with the bomb threat that on Monday caused the evacuation of LSU’s campus. Bouvay was charged with one count of willfully conveying false information concerning the attempt to destroy property by means of explosives in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section 844(e). If convicted, Bouvay faces up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine of up to $250,000.

U.S. Attorney Cazayoux stated, “This investigation is an example of the strong, collaborative efforts of university, local, state, and federal law enforcement. These investigative agencies moved expeditiously and decisively to identify and prosecute the individual responsible for the recent bomb threat against LSU. We appreciate the dedicated efforts of all agencies involved in quickly resolving this investigation. We will continue to work closely with District Attorney Hillar Moore to achieve the best result possible in this case which wreaked havoc and disrupted the lives of the people of LSU and the entire city of Baton Rouge.”

According to FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Anderson, “This investigation should send a clear message to the public and to those who make such terroristic threats to elicit fear, that the FBI and its law enforcement partners will quickly and fully deploy all available resources to bring such individuals to justice.”

District Attorney Hillar Moore stated, “I again commend the strong efforts of our university, local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in quickly solving this crime. We will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in our joint investigation and prosecution.”

“This investigation is an example of the success of law enforcement partnerships at the local, state, and federal level within Louisiana,” said Colonel Mike Edmonson, State Police Superintendent. “The swift culmination of this arrest is indicative of the overwhelming response and resources available to public safety agencies when we work together. I applaud the LSU Administration and the LSU Police Department for their leadership in this investigation.”

“I believe this incident was a prime example of all levels of the law enforcement community working together toward a common goal,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said. “That goal was the safety of the students, staff, and visitors on the LSU campus. I was impressed with the way all agencies on the local, state, and federal level worked together not only for the safety of those on campus, but also in the apprehension of the person responsible. I am pleased that the Sheriff’s Office could assist, and we will certainly be there to help anytime we are needed.”

Chief Lawrence Rabalais, LSU Police Department, stated, “The cooperation of the various agencies in this incident is a clear message that this type of action will not be tolerated in our community. The investigation and subsequent arrest, within 48 hours of the incident, are a strong indication of that message.”

The investigation is being conducted by the LSU Police, East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s Office, FBI, ATF&E, U.S. Marshals Service, Louisiana State Police, the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and Baton Rouge City Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frederick A. Menner, Jr.