Former Indiana State University student charged with extortion, threats

A former Indiana State University (ISU) student has found himself at the center of a federal indictment, facing a litany of charges related to extortion and interstate threats.

According to the indictment and other court documents, Nicholas Wheeler, 27, a former ISU student, is charged with four counts of transmitting extortion threats through interstate commerce and three counts of transmitting threats via interstate commerce.

The alleged incidents occurred on March 16 and 17, 2024, during which Wheeler allegedly made violent threats on the social media platform “X” (formerly Twitter) against Indiana State University, its professors and two of its former attorneys . .

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The indictment paints a chilling picture of Wheeler's alleged actions. He allegedly threatened to kill or harm the targeted people if they did not comply with his demands for $500,000 or an investigation into his claims of being the victim of a crime.

Some of the messages sent by Wheeler were particularly disturbing, including threats such as “I'm coming for your souls… funerals in closed caskets” and “Empty your bank accounts, I'm coming for blood from Indiana State University”, accompanied by messages. claiming to have a loaded machine gun and a bulletproof vest.

Wheeler attended Indiana State University from August 2018 to August 2023 and, at the time of the alleged threats, resided in California. The FBI is currently investigating the case and if convicted of the most serious offense, Wheeler faces up to 20 years in federal prison.

U.S. Attorney Myers expressed his gratitude to Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Oliver, who is prosecuting this high-profile case. It is important to note that an indictment is only an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

News of the federal indictment undoubtedly sent shock waves through the Indiana State University community. Students, faculty, and staff are likely grappling with the implications of these allegations, and the university administration may work to address any concerns or safety measures that need to be put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the campus.

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As the case unfolds, investigators will likely dig deeper into the circumstances surrounding Wheeler's alleged actions, including his motivations, the timeline of events and any potential links or triggers that may have led to the threats. The examination of the evidence and the progress of the legal proceedings will be closely followed by the public and the university community.

This case highlights the importance of robust security measures and threat response protocols within higher education institutions. Universities must remain vigilant in identifying and responding to any potential threats or extortion attempts, while also ensuring that the rights and due process of all those involved are respected.

A concerning aspect of this case is the use of social media platforms, such as the former “X” (Twitter), to transmit threats across state lines. This highlights the need for continued efforts to monitor and regulate the misuse of social media for malicious purposes, while respecting the principles of freedom of speech and expression.

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The federal indictment against Nicholas Wheeler raises important questions about the intersection of the legal system, public safety and individual rights. As the case progresses, it will be crucial that the legal process strikes a delicate balance between respecting the law, protecting the community and ensuring a fair trial for the accused.

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