Panama City Beach, FL – A former city judge in Tennessee, John Cris Helton, was arrested in Florida after allegedly sending a threatening text message to his wife and her friend, stating he would “kill both of you.” The disturbing message, which included a photo of a large kitchen knife, led to charges of making a written threat to kill or cause bodily harm.
The Alleged Threat and Arrest
John Cris Helton, 63, was arrested on September 28 in his hometown of Panama City Beach, Florida. According to the criminal complaint filed by police, Helton sent the threatening message at midnight the same day. The message was sent in a group text that included Helton, his wife, and her friend. It contained a photo of a large black and silver kitchen knife placed on Helton’s lap, accompanied by a chilling message that read, “I take that back I will kill both of you first.”
Helton’s wife reported the threat to the police, explaining that she was “fearful for her life” and that she “did not want to be close” to her husband after receiving the threatening text. The criminal complaint did not clarify the reasons behind the alleged threat or whether there had been prior incidents of threats or violence within the couple’s relationship.
A Shocking Revelation During the Interview
When Helton was later questioned by police, he admitted to sending the message and the photo of the knife. The photo, which was taken with the knife on Helton’s lap, matched the description his wife had provided. Police also noted that Helton was wearing “the same color of pants and shirt” during the interview as he was wearing in the photo that was sent with the threatening message.
The full message allegedly sent by Helton read:
“I take that back I will kill both of you first. Don’t forget she knows your worth.” This phrase left many questioning the context of the threat, particularly the mention of “your worth,” which could imply a deeper, unspoken conflict between the individuals involved.
Helton’s Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Helton was arrested and charged with sending a written threat to kill or do bodily harm. After his arrest, he was booked into jail and his bond was set at $50,000, which he posted on September 30. As part of the conditions of his release, Helton was ordered not to contact his wife.
Helton’s arraignment is scheduled for November 3, and it is unclear at this time whether more charges will be brought against him or if the alleged victims will pursue further legal action.
Background and Previous Career
John Cris Helton had previously served as a city judge in Tennessee. His arrest shocked the local community, where he had been known for his professional demeanor in the courtroom. The allegations against him paint a troubling picture of a man who, despite his public position, is now facing serious legal consequences for the alleged violent threats he made towards his wife and her friend.
No Context for the Threat
As of now, police have not provided any further details regarding the motivation behind the alleged threat or any history of violence between the couple. The absence of context raises questions about what might have led to such a drastic and alarming action. Further investigation is likely needed to understand the dynamics at play, but the severity of the threat is undeniable, especially considering Helton’s access to potentially dangerous weapons, such as the kitchen knife pictured in the text.
Next Steps and Community Reactions
The community in Panama City Beach is reeling from the news of the arrest, and many are waiting to see how the legal system will handle this high-profile case. Helton’s upcoming arraignment on November 3 will shed more light on the charges, and the court will determine how the case proceeds based on the evidence provided.
Authorities are also considering whether additional charges will be filed against Helton based on the nature of the threat and the circumstances surrounding it. The public will be closely watching the outcome of this case, especially given Helton’s former position in the judicial system.
Call to Action
What do you think of this case? Do you believe Helton should face more charges, or do you have thoughts on how the justice system should address threats like this? Share your opinions in the comments below.
