Former LA deputy mayor sentenced for fake bomb threat

Brian K. Williams, a former deputy mayor of public safety under Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, was sentenced Oct. 6, 2025 in U.S. District Court to one year of probation after admitting he falsely reported a bomb at Los Angeles City Hall during a virtual meeting in October 2024. Prosecutors said Williams made the report after becoming overwhelmed during a meeting; he pleaded guilty in May to a single federal count involving threats regarding fire and explosives and has entered treatment for asserted mental‑health issues.