FBI Launches Probe Into Al Sharpton, Others Over Threats In Mississippi Case

Federal authorities are examining threats aimed at people connected to the case of an 18-year-old Mississippi resident who disappeared and was later found deceased.

Nolan Wells went missing on July 4 after heading out on a boat trip with friends to Horn Island, a barrier island along the state’s Gulf Coast. Search efforts continued for two days until a National Park Service ranger located his body on the island’s northwestern tip on July 6.

Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell stated that the FBI is looking into threats directed at public officials, the individuals who were with Wells in the hours before he vanished, and members of their families. He shared these details during an appearance on a Mississippi Public Broadcasting program.

Tindell noted that inaccurate details spreading about the circumstances of Wells’ death have intensified public frustration and led to a wave of calls to his office, some of which included explicit threats. He also indicated that Wells’ mother has faced related threats.

According to Tindell, the FBI has contacted state officials and is assisting in any way needed while focusing specifically on the threats against those involved in the matter, including potential witnesses and family members.

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has pointed to civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and activist Al Sharpton as primary figures responsible for escalating tensions that contributed to the threats. Reeves described their actions as promoting division for personal benefit and characterized the pattern as consistent with how they have operated in the past. He expressed confidence that local and state investigators, along with the medical examiner, will pursue the facts thoroughly, and noted that the state’s top prosecutor is taking a firm stance.

Tindell separately confirmed that threats against Department of Public Safety staff are under active investigation, as are those received by some potential witnesses and their relatives.

Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch emphasized that anyone attempting to intimidate or interfere with law enforcement or prosecutors working on the case will face accountability. She praised the professional handling of the investigation by local and state authorities and stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of an ongoing inquiry. Fitch also offered condolences to Wells’ family.