Judge sentences caller who threatened to shoot Rodney Davis

Posted on November 23, 2020
U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-Taylorville). (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

SPRINGFIELD – A US District Judge sentenced Randall E. Tarr, of Rochester, to serve two years probation with a requirement that Tarr undergo mental health counseling and treatment for threatening to shoot U.S. Congressman Rodney Davis.

The sentence, which was handed down on Friday, came after 65-year-old Tarr pleaded guilty to making the threat while leaving a voicemail message on the phone at Davis’ Decatur office.

The US Justice Department said the “profanity filled” call was made in the early hours of November 25, 2019. That message was then forwarded to US Capitol Police, who were able to identify Tarr as the caller, thanks to caller ID. Rochester Police made contact with Tarr within the same day.

In addition to probation and mental health treatment, Judge Sue E. Myerscough ordered Tarr to pay a $2,000 fine. He can have no contact with the Congressman Davis, his office, or members of his family.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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