Dec 15, 2022

Preliminary hearing set for Kan. man accused of threat of mass violence

Posted Dec 15, 2022 1:30 AM
Patterson -photo Reno Co.
Patterson -photo Reno Co.

By JUDD WEIL 
Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Andrew D. Patterson, 24, Hutchinson, is set to appear in Reno County District Court for a preliminary hearing on Feb. 13 at 1:30 p.m. 

Patterson was charged with attempted terrorism in June, following threats he made against his workplace and a school. 

If convicted, he could get up to 50 years in prison without parole.

A previous complaint filed in the case, alleged a threat against Hutchinson Middle School-8 (HMS-8), and a separate threat against the Dillon's distribution center.

Additionally, Patterson allegedly made a further threat against a specific individual.

The terrorism charge is founded in the HMS-8 threat. Patterson was detained during a May 31, traffic stop after law enforcement received information that Patterson had made the threatening comments.

During the stop, police found detailed plans in Patterson’s vehicle to carry out an act of mass violence.

A search warrant was executed at his residence where additional evidence related to the plan was collected.