A 72-year-old Pennsylvania man with a prior history of harassing public officials has been arrested in connection with alleged stalking and harassment of New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill during her gubernatorial campaign.
Stephen Cilurso of Aldan, Pennsylvania, was taken into custody Wednesday after the New Jersey State Police issued a warrant for his arrest on Jan. 22, according to the U.S. Marshals Service in Philadelphia. Officials said Cilurso is accused of leaving “explicit and derogatory” messages for Sherrill in October and November.
Cilurso was arrested in Pennsylvania and is currently awaiting extradition to New Jersey.
Authorities said Cilurso previously pleaded guilty in 2021 to leaving 19 harassing voicemail messages for the office of U.S. Rep. Madeleine Dean over an eight-day period. Those messages referenced the Proud Boys and Dean’s testimony during President Donald Trump’s second impeachment trial, officials said.
Officials have not released additional details about the nature of the messages left for Gov. Sherrill or about the specific charges he faces in New Jersey.
This is concerning news. It’s interesting that the suspect has a prior history of harassing public officials. I hope Governor Sherrill stays safe and justice is served in this case.
It is always alarming to hear about incidents involving threats against public officials, regardless of their political affiliation. Ensuring the safety of those serving in government is critical for a healthy democracy. I hope the authorities are able to handle this situation thoroughly to prevent any further escalation.