A Los Angeles deputy mayor has been accused of calling in a fake bomb threat to City Hall.
“Earlier this year the LAPD responded to a bomb threat made against Los Angeles City Hall. Our initial investigation revealed that the source of the threat was likely from Brian Williams, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety,” Los Angeles police said.
The FBI searched Williams’ home this week in connection with the alleged threat from earlier this year, officials said Wednesday.
Williams has been placed on administrative leave, Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement.
“The Mayor takes this matter very seriously,” the statement said. “When the threat was reported, LAPD investigated and determined there was no immediate danger. Following additional investigation, LAPD referred this matter to the FBI for further investigation.”
Williams’ law firm did not immediately respond to a call and an email seeking comment Wednesday afternoon.
Authorities did not specify when the threat was made.
The investigation into the threat and Williams was turned over to the FBI because of the police department’s working relationship with Williams, officials said.
A spokesperson for the FBI Los Angeles declined to comment Wednesday afternoon.
