Oregon man found guilty of stalking former US government official in Arizona

PHOENIX — An Oregon man was found guilty of one count of cyberstalking and one count of interstate stalking on June 13 for engaging with a former U.S. government official in Arizona between 2023 and 2024, officials announced Friday.

If convicted on both charges, 52-year-old Brian Thomas Balda could serve up to 10 years in prison, have to pay a $500,000 fine and face as much as six years of supervised release, according to the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona.

U.S. District Court Judge Angela M. Martinez oversaw the four-day trial that led to Balda’s guilty verdict.

Balda’s sentencing is set for Sept. 4.

Details of stalking that led to Oregon man’s guilty verdict

For roughly 10 months between 2023 and 2024, authorities discovered that Balda had delivered “abusive and profane text messages” to the former U.S. government official.

He attempted to physically confront the official by driving to Arizona but police arrested Balda before he was able to reach the victim’s home.

Authorities found four knives, binoculars and a replica handgun in Balda’s car when handling the investigation.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department, University of Arizona Police Department and FBI Phoenix Division’s Tucson office collaborated on the case.

Related

Arizona woman sentenced to nearly 10 years for assaulting toddlerArizona fugitive wanted for multiple child sex crimes arrested in UkraineWoman arrested for DUI after 4-vehicle crash in Phoenix leaves 1 critically injuredCenter Court Pickleball Club expands Valley footprint with 2nd Scottsdale venue, 4th overallArizona sheriff’s office cuts ties with K-9 foundation over concerns about transparencyTempe Marketplace welcomes 5 additions, including newly opened Carhartt