Arizona Senator Receives Death Threat

Letter makes apparent reference to Jared Loughner

Updated: Wednesday, 13 Apr 2011, 6:21 PM MDT
Published : Wednesday, 13 Apr 2011, 6:20 PM MDT

PHOENIX - A death threat made against an Arizona senator is being investigated by the Department of Public Safety.

Senator Ron Gould received the letter and he's concerned. But he's also prepared.

The senator says after the Gabrielle Giffords' shooting, he carries a concealed weapon all the time -- and the letter he just received is another reason why.

The shocking letter reads: "You and Jared have your Glock nine. I have Rem 270. Be very ready."

The senator's picture is printed on the side.

The letter originated from Flagstaff, Arizona. But it doesn't have a return name or a return address. Senator Gould says he's concerned for his family's safety.

"It just kind of brings to mind the fact that there are psychotics and evildoers in society and that we need to be concerned about that and concerned for our safety," says Sen. Ron Gould.

Gould believes the letter is referring to Jared Loughner, the man charged in the Gabrielle Giffords shooting. The letter didn't say why Gould is being targeted, but he has a few ideas.

"I've got illegal immigration bills, I have gun bills, I'm a fiscal conservative and I always supported reducing the budget, so you know, who knows what. I held a bill that would have prohibited the sale of animals on public property, so you know it could be coming from anybody."

Gould says this is the just latest example of what he calls an increased lack of civility.

"It seems like we get more and more divided, and people are willing to stand out front with a bullhorn and call me a racist every time I walk outside the building."

DPS is investigating this death threat. They say they tell lawmakers to keep a log of all threatening letters or calls, and if they notice a pattern of letters from the same person, they should contact law enforcement.

http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/dpp/news/cr ... -4-13-2011