Kingsport, TN ( WOKI / WVLT) – A Kingsport man has been arrested after authorities say he left threatening voicemails for two churches, causing staff members to fear for their safety.
The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that Robert Lewis Wilson, 39, of Kingsport, was taken into custody following an investigation into threatening phone messages directed at two local churches.
According to investigators, detectives learned Wilson contacted one church and left a voicemail that alarmed staff members and caused them to fear for their safety.
As the investigation continued, detectives discovered Wilson had also contacted a second church and left another voicemail message.
Authorities said the second message referenced threats made during the first phone call.
While investigators noted that the threats were not directed at any specific individual, the nature of the messages caused staff members at both churches to become concerned that serious bodily injury could occur.
Former Church Member
According to the sheriff’s office, Wilson was identified as a former member of one of the churches involved in the investigation.
Authorities said he had previously been trespassed from that church before the threatening calls were made.
Investigators did not identify either church involved in the case.
Arrested at Workplace
The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office said Wilson was arrested at his place of employment without incident.
He has been charged with:
- Threats of Mass Violence
- Assault
- Harassment
Following his arrest, Wilson was transported to the Sullivan County Jail.
Bond Set at $20,000
Jail records show Wilson’s bond was set at $20,000.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the content of the voicemails.
The investigation remains ongoing.
