LEWISBURG, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Lewisburg man is facing charges after allegedly making harassing and threatening phone calls to Lewisburg City Hall, including death threats against city employees.
Cpl. J.A. Vance of the Lewisburg Police Department launched an investigation after multiple voicemails were left on the city’s phone system. The messages, allegedly from Michael Neeley, escalated from hostile remarks to direct threats of violence.
Threatening Messages and Prior Incidents
Investigators reviewed seven voicemails left between March 4 and March 5, 2025, from the phone number (304) 575-9932. In the messages, Neeley specifically targeted former Mayor John Manchester, who is deceased, and also made threats toward city staff.
In a voicemail left on March 5 at 6:54 p.m., Neeley reportedly stated:
- “And you, Mrs. Secretary, you’re dead first because you’re the one that will call the cops.”
- “If I cannot get law enforcement to do their job, I will do it for them, and I bring the death penalty.”
Neeley also admitted to previously calling in bomb threats to City Hall on at least three occasions.
This is not the first time Neeley has been investigated for threats. In 2020, he was charged after making similar threats, including a bomb threat, that led to the evacuation and closure of government offices for a full day. His actions appear to stem from a false belief that the former mayor was using a piano outside City Hall to produce counterfeit money.
Further Investigation and Arrest
The threats were received by city staff member Susan Honaker, who reported them to authorities.
Additionally, on March 6, 2025, Sgt. Blevins of the West Virginia State Police (WVSP) received a call from Neeley at 7:59 a.m., claiming to report a counterfeiting operation in Lewisburg. A few minutes later, at 8:02 a.m., he called back and stated he “threatened to go back and take matters into his own hands but doesn’t want to commit murder.”
Given the escalating threats and past behavior, authorities have taken legal action against Neeley.
