County Official in jail for making threats to a judge

TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The head of Rensselaer County Veteran's Services is out of his job and in jail after allegedly threatening a County Judge. It's all tied to a murder from nearly three years ago.

One of the three men charged in the case, was in court to take a plea bargain. It was during his sentencing that the father of the victim allegedly threatened the judge. It led to his arrest and then disturbing finds later at his home.

“Officers took the individual into custody. He was detained until Troy Police Patrol Officers were able to arrive,” confirmed Steven Barker, Assistant Chief of Police.

Kevin Miller Jr's son was murdered in his home in Pittstown on June 9, 2021. “The investigation revealed that there was an altercation that led to shots fired which resulted in the death of 19-year-old Nathaniel Miller,” said Christopher West, Troop G State Police.

Three men were arrested, two already sentenced to 25 years to life for the killing.  The third, Devin Van Patten, in Rensselaer County Court plead guilty in exchange for a reduced sentence. It was during that sentencing that miller allegedly made a threat against the County Judge Jennifer Sober.

“Our victim, Judge Sober, reported the suspect had made threatening statements directed at the victim, during the hearing earlier that morning,” said Barker.

Court documents obtained by NEWS10 show Miller was charged with making a Terrorist Threat, a felony and misdemeanor counts for second-degree Criminal Contempt and first-degree Harassment.

“He was arraigned in Troy City Court, but I believe state police had follow-up charges,” said Barker. 

State Police say they executed a warrant at Miller’s house and more charges were added. They tell NEWS10 they seized assault weapons and magazines that violated state law.

Miller's attorney was unavailable for comment, at this time.