A Buffalo man has pleaded guilty to charges related to threats made to blow up the Buffalo Veterans Affairs Medical Center and other VA hospitals/facilities, according to an announcement by U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross. Demont Coston, 56, entered a guilty plea for assault on a federal employee and now faces a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $1 million fine. Coston is scheduled for sentencing on July 11 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer.
The case against Coston began when he called the Veterans Affairs Crisis Line on September 12th of last year and made repeated threats to blow up the VA facility in Buffalo. Two days later, Coston sent a text message to the Crisis Line stating, "The VA haven't done (expletive) for me in 30 years, it's time to get rid of it, by any means necessary."
In the same message, he also mentioned his intention to target all VA facilities, with one specific facility in mind. Coston further claimed to be in Washington, D.C., near the main VA facility, expressing his knowledge of where to strike.
Court documents revealed that Coston had served in the Navy but received an Other Than Honorable discharge, rendering him ineligible for VA benefits and services. It was also noted that he had previously attempted to obtain benefits but was denied.
The threats made by Coston raised serious concerns about the safety and security of the Buffalo VA hospital and other VA facilities. The U.S. Attorney's Office, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, took swift action to investigate and apprehend Coston ensuring the protection of staff and patients.
U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross emphasized the severity of the charges and the potential consequences faced by Coston. The guilty plea serves as a reminder that threats against federal employees and institutions will be met with legal repercussions.
The Buffalo VA hospital plays a crucial role in providing healthcare services to veterans in the region. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by veterans and the importance of addressing their needs and concerns.