Crime and Courts

Dennis Hernandez faces judge after allegations of threats against UConn, Brown

NBC Universal, Inc.

Dennis “DJ” Hernandez, brother of the late NFL player Aaron Hernandez, appeared in court Tuesday after to face charges of threatening and breach of peace in the second degree.

He is accused of making threats against the University of Connecticut, Brown University as well as individuals.

The former UConn quarterback was arrested on July 19 after a victim called Bristol police to say Hernandez's mental health was deteriorating and that he was planning a school shooting, according to the arrest warrant.

In New Britain Superior Court Tuesday, Bristol police officer Zachary Levine testified he responded to complaints from a witness who said she has received details on threatening text messages sent to a third party.

She told the officer she was concerned for Hernandez and that he was bipolar and schizophrenic.

According to the warrant, Hernandez said that he’d gone to the University of Connecticut and Brown University to “map the schools out,” and was planning a school shooting.

The arrest warrant said Bristol police notified UConn police about the messages and provided them with information about a vehicle and they were able to locate it on campus on July 7.

On Tuesday, the officer testified that vehicle was registered to Hernandez's current girlfriend and the the vehicle was associated with Hernandez.

After his arrest on July 19, Hernandez was taken to New Britain Hospital for a psychiatric evaluation, Levine testified.

Levin told the judge Hernandez told another officer that after he was released, he intended to kill his ex-wife.

The judge placed a protective order against Hernandez and he remains in custody.

He is also facing federal charges in connection with the alleged threats.

A federal complaint charges Hernandez with transmitting interstate communications containing a threat to injure, and interstate stalking, according to the Department of Justice.

Contact Us