Charges Related to Witness Threats
Three individuals face charges for allegedly threatening witnesses linked to the investigation of Mississippi teenager Nolan Wells’ death. Documentation shows Edward James Porter is accused of threatening two witnesses on July 31. A probable cause affidavit indicates that Porter called these witnesses multiple times, threatening to harm them and their families. He allegedly told a witness he would dismember them and place them in a suitcase.
Background of Nolan Wells’ Death
Wells was found dead on July 6 at Horn Island’s northwest tip in Mississippi. He had visited the area with friends for the July 4 holiday. His friends reported leaving early due to their boat taking on water. They claimed Wells chose to stay behind, intending to return with another group. His disappearance was reported by his mother and a friend when he failed to return home.
Questions and Investigations
Wells’ family’s attorney, Ben Crump, raised concerns about racial factors possibly influencing the case. Wells was reportedly one of the few Black individuals present. Crump also disputes the theory that Wells drowned, citing his strong swimming skills and athletic background. NBC News sought comments from Crump regarding these issues.
Additional Threat Charges
Another defendant, Joseph Alfredo Vasquez Dumarce, allegedly sent threatening Facebook messages to a Jackson County Chancery Court judge on July 11. Court documents include screenshots of messages threatening to deliver a bomb to the judge’s office. Authorities linked the Facebook account named “yaeyae962” to Dumarce. The mother of one of Wells’ friends, Ashlee Cole, who is a judge, posted about these messages online. Documents identify the victim in this case with initials “A.C.”
Third Defendant’s Alleged Actions
The third person charged, Michelle Francine Edwards, allegedly made bomb threats to the George County chancery clerk’s office on July 23. According to affidavits, Edwards warned the chancery clerk not to go outside and continued the threats with calls to the Jackson County sheriff’s office. No legal representation is listed for Porter, Dumarce, or Edwards currently. NBC News has contacted the Jackson County public defender’s office concerning these cases.
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