A former Omaha mayoral communications director and local meteorologist has been arrested after threatening to lynch and slit the throat of Douglas County Health Director Dr. Adi Pour.
The Douglas County Sheriff's Office says 57 year old Ronald Penzkowski, of Omaha, was booked into the Douglas County jail on charges of Felony Terroristic Threats and Misdemeanor Stalking. At a Wednesday press conference, Captain Wayne Hudson said that Penzkowski had emailed the threats to Dr. Pour over her involvement in the COVID-19 coronavirus response in Douglas County.
The Sheriff's Office says that Penzkowski sent Dr. Pour 15 emails threatening her life during the span of a week. His motives appeared to be aimed at decisions made by Dr. Pour when it comes to social distancing and the economic costs that come with social distancing.
Penzkowski, also known by Ron Gerard, was a meteorologist for both KETV and KPTM in the 1980's and 90's. He also served as communication director for Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle from 2009-2010.