Police arrested a man again this week after investigators linked him to threats tied to a New Year’s Eve event, just days after charging him in a downtown brewery burglary.
Seneca Falls police arrested Mekhi L. Russ, 24, of Seneca Falls around 7:22 a.m. on Dec. 31 following a harassment investigation that began earlier that morning, according to a department press release .
Investigators said the case involved alleged threats posted on social media that referenced harming people attending the village’s annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. Police also said Russ allegedly attempted to intimidate a witness connected to a separate, ongoing criminal matter.
Police charged Russ with intimidating a victim or witness in the third degree and making a terroristic threat. Officers took him into custody without incident and held him at the Seneca County Correctional Facility pending arraignment.
The new arrest comes days after police charged Russ in a separate case involving a burglary at Fall Street Brewing Company.
Investigators said someone unlawfully entered the brewery during the early morning hours of Sunday following the “It’s a Wonderful Life” weekend celebration and stole several items.
Police arrested Russ in that case around 2 p.m. on Dec. 23. He faces charges of third-degree burglary and second-degree criminal mischief, both Class D felonies, along with fourth-degree grand larceny, a Class E felony, and a misdemeanor charge for possession of burglar’s tools.
Police said there is no credible threat to public safety related to the New Year’s Eve event. Officers said they will continue monitoring the situation and maintain a visible police presence.
Anyone with information about either case is asked to contact the Town of Seneca Falls Police Department.
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