Nathan Ray Justice, a 30-year-old Hastings resident, has received a 90-day jail sentence after pleading guilty to charges of threats of violence against law enforcement officials. This sentencing follows a series of threatening communications directed towards a Hastings police deputy chief, which began in early September and escalated over the subsequent weeks. Justice’s threats emerged from frustration over the non-return of his cellphone, which had been seized as part of an investigation stemming from an earlier incident where he pointed a firearm at a neighbor during a dispute.
The initial confrontation that led to Justice’s cellphone being confiscated occurred in August, when he allegedly pointed a gun at a neighbor concerning an argument about dog waste. This incident prompted law enforcement to initiate an inquiry, culminating in the seizure of his mobile device for forensic assessment by the county’s electronic crimes unit. In the weeks following the seizure, Justice became increasingly irate over the delay in retrieving his cellphone, prompting repeated emails and texts laden with profane language directed at the deputy chief and other staff members.
Despite assurances from law enforcement that processing the phone would take time, Justice continued his barrage of messages, which became more aggressive. He called the deputy chief on October 22, threatening him directly, using derogatory terms, and expressing a desire to kill him. His anger didn’t stop there; Justice also contacted a civilian staff member at the electronic crimes unit through various channels, including phone and social media platforms, where he harassed her for the return of his cellphone.
Justice’s behavior extended beyond personal threats, as he expressed his discontent on social media by tagging the City of Hastings in several posts, suggesting that the situation was approaching a breaking point. These communications portrayed a clear escalation of aggression and hostility towards law enforcement officials, illustrating a concerning pattern of behavior. He also has a troubling legal history, which includes another active case from November 2023 for fleeing police in a vehicle and driving while impaired.
Justice’s previous criminal record complicates this situation further, with a conviction in October 2021 for driving under the influence and failures in compliance with court-imposed conditions, such as not completing chemical treatment assessments. He was also convicted of motor vehicle theft and disorderly conduct in 2021, showcasing a range of unlawful activities that have compounded his legal difficulties.
Overall, Nathan Ray Justice’s case serves as a stark example of how personal grievances can result in alarming threats against law enforcement. His escalating behavior not only put him in legal jeopardy but highlighted the broader challenges faced by police officers in handling volatile situations involving individuals with a history of violent and erratic behavior. The 90-day jail sentence reflects the serious nature of his actions, while also emphasizing the importance of accountability in maintaining public safety.
