JACKSON COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A West Virginia man faces charges after allegedly leaving multiple threatening voicemails directed at Magistrate Judge Jackie Casto, including comments that authorities interpreted as a potential terrorist threat.
Deputy L.M. Casto of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department began investigating the case on October 15, 2024, after courthouse employees reported receiving seven alarming voicemails targeting Magistrate Casto over the weekend.
The voicemails, left by a man identified as Ross Cataffo, reportedly contained vulgar and aggressive language. In one message, Cataffo allegedly questioned, “Nobody wants a war. We don’t want to blow ourselves up, do we?” Authorities believe this statement was intended as a threat, followed by demands for Magistrate Casto to issue warrants against individuals Cataffo wanted arrested.
History of Harassment
Deputy Casto identified Cataffo as the caller after matching the phone number used—410-262-9759—with previous incidents involving similar unwanted and vulgar messages directed at the magistrate. When contacted by the deputy, Cataffo admitted to leaving the messages and claimed ownership of the voicemails.
Deputy Casto reviewed all seven voicemails and noted the aggressive tone and repeated vulgarities directed at Magistrate Casto, which the deputy believes were intended to intimidate or influence the magistrate’s official actions.
Warrant Requested
Based on the nature of the messages and the perceived threats, Deputy Casto requested a warrant for Ross Cataffo’s arrest on charges of making threats of terrorist acts under West Virginia Code 61-6-24(b).
