Dennis Hernandez, older brother of late NFL player Aaron Hernandez, has pleaded guilty to federal charges of threatening a shooting at the University of Connecticut (UConn) and making additional threats against individuals outside the state, including a judge.
Hernandez, 38, appeared in federal court in Hartford on Wednesday, admitting to transmitting interstate communications containing threats to injure. The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for February 6, 2024.
Details of the Threats
In July 2023, Hernandez sent a series of messages on Facebook threatening a mass shooting at UConn’s main campus in Storrs.
“I would recommend remaining away from there because when I go I’m taking down everything,” Hernandez wrote in one message, according to court documents. He expressed readiness to die and claimed, “Not all shootings are bad… Some are necessary for change to happen.”
Authorities revealed that Hernandez had visited UConn and Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island—where he had once served as a quarterbacks coach—to “map the schools out” for potential shootings.
Additional Threats
Alongside the threats to UConn, Hernandez posted messages on Facebook targeting three individuals outside of Connecticut, including a state court judge. Prosecutors said these threats were also made in July 2023.
Mental Health and Arrest
Hernandez’s mother, Terri Hernandez, told police that her son has struggled with mental health issues, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. His arrest in Bristol last year occurred after he exited his sister’s house, shouting, “Shoot me,” and threatening officers. Police subdued him with a stun gun before taking him into custody.
Prior Incidents
Hernandez also faces charges in state court related to an incident outside ESPN’s headquarters in March 2023. Police reported that he threw a bag containing a brick and a note over the fence at ESPN’s Bristol property before fleeing.
The note read:
“To all media outlets, It’s about time you all realeyes the affect media has on all family members. Since you’re a world wide leader maybe you could lead how media and messages are delivered brick by brick. Clean it up! Yours truly, Dennis J. Hernandez.”
Motivations Behind the Threats
Authorities believe Hernandez’s actions were fueled by financial struggles, frustration with career setbacks in football, and anger over people profiting from the legacy of his younger brother, Aaron Hernandez.
Aaron Hernandez, a former NFL star, died by suicide in 2017 while serving a life sentence for murder. His death has left a complex and painful legacy for the family.
