Clift Seferlis, 55, of Garrett Park, Maryland, was sentenced on Mar. 16 to 37 months in prison for mailing threatening communications to Jewish institutions and violating civil rights, according to United States Attorney David Metcalf. The sentence also includes three years of supervised release, a $40,000 fine, and a $2,200 special assessment.
Seferlis pleaded guilty in November to 17 counts of mailing threatening communications and eight counts of obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs. The charges stem from threats sent to Jewish organizations and entities.
Court filings show that between March 2024 and June 2025, Seferlis used the mail to send at least 40 letters and two postcards containing threats to more than 25 Jewish institutions across multiple jurisdictions. These included synagogues, museums, community centers, schools, nonprofit organizations, and a delicatessen. Many messages threatened destruction of property or harm to individuals.
The communications were intended to intimidate recipients and interfere with their ability to freely practice their religion. “Threats directed at religious institutions are attacks not just on those communities but on the freedoms guaranteed to all Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “Individuals who attempt to intimidate or terrorize others because of their faith will face the full force of federal law.”
Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Field Office said: “This case serves as a stark reminder that members of our community can still face threats because of their beliefs. No one should have to live in fear because of who they are or what they believe. The FBI and our partners remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting every member of our community and holding those who seek to intimidate or harm others fully accountable.”
The investigation involved several agencies including FBI Philadelphia and Baltimore offices, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Montgomery County Police Department in Maryland, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland’s Greenbelt office as well as support from groups such as the Anti-Defamation League.
