Former University Employee Sentenced for Staging Hoax Bombing

A former Northeastern University employee, Jason Duhaime, was sentenced to one year in prison on Monday after being convicted of fabricating a 2022 bomb hoax on the Boston campus. The incident led to a significant law enforcement response and disrupted campus activities.

The Incident and False Claims

The staged hoax occurred on September 13, 2022, when Duhaime, who was then the technology manager and director of the university’s Immersive Media Lab, called 911. He claimed to have been injured by sharp objects that flew out of a package he opened. The package allegedly contained a “violent note” criticizing virtual reality, the lab’s work, and Mark Zuckerberg, founder of Meta Platforms.

Despite his claims, prosecutors found discrepancies. Duhaime’s arms had only superficial marks, and there were no signs of damage to his shirt, the package, or the note.

Campus Evacuation and Response

The incident triggered a large-scale response, with police and bomb squads evacuating buildings on campus. The emergency drew comparisons to the heightened security atmosphere following the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, which had left a deep impact on the city.

Investigation and Arrest

Authorities quickly began to suspect Duhaime’s account was fabricated. During interviews with law enforcement, he insisted on being the victim of an attack, despite evidence pointing to a staged hoax. Days later, Duhaime was arrested in Texas, where he had been living with his girlfriend.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

A federal jury in June 2023 found Duhaime guilty of conveying false information about an explosive device and lying to investigators. U.S. District Judge William Young handed down the one-year prison sentence.

Duhaime’s lawyer, Scott Lauer, argued against prison time, citing Duhaime’s declining health. However, the court upheld the sentence, emphasizing the gravity of his actions.