Florida Man Charged with Threatening Rep. Eric Swalwell and Family

Michael Shapiro, 72, of Florida has been accused of threatening Congressman Eric Swalwell and his children with death. Federal prosecutors say Shapiro placed threatening voicemails at Swalwell’s Washington office, referencing his former association with alleged Chinese spy Fang Fang. (Photo: NY Post)

Michael Shapiro, 72, Allegedly Threatened Congressman Over Past Relationship with Suspected Chinese Spy, Christine Fang

Michael Shapiro, 72, of Florida has been accused of threatening Congressman Eric Swalwell and his children with death. Federal prosecutors say Shapiro placed threatening voicemails at Swalwell’s Washington office, referencing his former association with alleged Chinese spy Fang Fang. According to the Washington Examiner and The Hill, court papers revealed disturbing threats against the congressman and his family.

Shapiro’s December 19, 2023 communications called Swalwell a “greaseball” and threatened to harm him and his children. Federal prosecutors said the voicemails included Christine Fang, a suspected Chinese agent, and abusive language toward Swalwell about this relationship. Swalwell and his family are distraught and afraid.

Although Swalwell was not charged with misconduct, the House Ethics Committee’s two-year inquiry into Fang’s suspected ties to him resulted in his loss of seat on the House Intelligence Committee. Swalwell has refused to let such threats stop him from representing his constituents.

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Such threats are highlighted by Shapiro’s arrest and appearance in the federal District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Shapiro pleaded guilty to identical charges against another Congressman in 2019. These events underscore the necessity for public leaders to be vigilant and secure from threats and intimidation.

This case highlights the risks public personalities confront in their work. Congressman Swalwell and his family were threatened, highlighting the need to protect elected leaders who serve their communities with passion.

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