Bomb threat closes governmental buildings in Racine County

Updated: Sept. 27, 2024

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Investigators arrested a suspect accused of making threats to governmental buildings in Racine County. 

According to the Racine County Sheriff's Office, investigators identified the phone number that made an automated bomb threat on Monday, Sept. 23. The investigation revealed the phone number came back to the area of Alberta, Canada. 

Authorities determined the phone number was purchased through an internet company that sells phone numbers to third party companies all over the world. 

The investigation determined the suspect who purchased the phone number was 29-year-old Devone Kessler of Racine. 

Kessler was arrested, and authorities say they obtained a full confession from him. 

Officials referred the following charges against Kessler to the district attorney's office:

• Terrorist threats
• Bomb scare

Published: Sept. 23, 2024

RACINE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- A bomb threat closed governmental buildings in Racine County on Monday, Sept. 23. 

According to the Racine County Sheriff's Office, a 911 call came in from an automated voice making a bomb threat to various buildings in Racine County. 

Out of abundance of caution, officials closed the Racine County Courthouse and the law enforcement center.

All citizens and non-essential personnel were evacuated. 

Authorities used explosive K-9 teams to sweep the buildings. 

There are no known threats to the public. 

All county buildings and agencies are expected to resume back to normal on Tuesday.