Politics
Wayne County, MI: Man Accused of Threatening Detroit Mayor
DETROIT, MI – A 55 year old Detroit man is facing a terrorism related criminal charge after allegedly threatening to shoot a city government building and physically harm Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield d
By Grant Holloway · 2026-10-09T23:26:05.784Z
DETROIT, MI – A 55 year old Detroit man is facing a terrorism related criminal charge after allegedly threatening to shoot a city government building and physically harm Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield during two encounters at municipal facilities earlier this week.
According to the Detroit Police Department and Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, Sterling Anthony Peters, 55, of Detroit, has been charged with one count of false report or threat of terrorism following an investigation into the alleged threats.
Authorities said the incidents occurred Monday, Oct. 5, beginning at approximately 9:06 a.m. inside the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in the 2 block of Woodward Avenue.
Investigators allege Peters entered the municipal building and attempted to walk into the mayor's office.
While officers were escorting him out of the building, Peters allegedly threatened to shoot up the facility, according to prosecutors.
A short time later, Peters allegedly entered Detroit Public Safety Headquarters in the 1300 block of Third Avenue.
Officers again escorted him from the building.
During that encounter, Peters allegedly made threats of physical harm directed at Mayor Sheffield.
Following an investigation by Detroit police, the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office authorized the criminal charge.
The allegations involve two prominent Detroit government facilities, including the municipal center housing the mayor's office and the city's public safety headquarters.
Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the alleged threats or indicated whether any weapons were recovered during the investigation.
The police department also did not provide details about Peters' bond status or upcoming court appearances in its announcement.
The case remains subject to further court proceedings.
Peters is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.