Fantasy football is a beloved pastime for many sports enthusiasts, but for one Philadelphia man, it led to a shocking turn of events that resulted in federal charges. Matthew Gabriel, a 25-year-old, found himself embroiled in a bitter feud with a league mate after a disagreement in an online fantasy football chat. What started as a simple dispute escalated into a dangerous game of threats and deception.
According to prosecutors, Gabriel took matters into his own hands and falsely warned authorities in Norway and Iowa that his rival was plotting a mass shooting and a bombing. In a desperate attempt to discredit his opponent, Gabriel submitted an anonymous tip to the Norwegian Police Security Service, claiming that his league mate and others planned to carry out a mass shooting during a concert and at a department store in Oslo in August 2023.
Police both in the United States and Norway invested significant resources into investigating the false tip, ultimately uncovering Gabriel’s deceit. Despite admitting to the FBI that he had submitted the fake warning, Gabriel continued his vendetta against his rival by sending another fictitious tip to the University of Iowa, alleging that his opponent threatened to blow up the school.
While it remains unclear what sparked the initial disagreement between Gabriel and his fantasy football rival, it is evident that Gabriel’s actions were taken to extreme lengths. Despite facing serious federal charges for interstate and foreign communication of a threat to injure, Gabriel’s attorney was able to negotiate a plea deal that would result in 15 months of house arrest and probation, rather than a prison sentence.
As Gabriel awaits formal sentencing in January, U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero issued a warning to others who may consider following in his footsteps. Hoax threats are not a joke and come with severe consequences. Gabriel’s case serves as a cautionary tale for all, reminding us to think twice before engaging in risky and harmful behavior online.