News Summary

Candice Williams, a 35-year-old woman, was arrested for allegedly making a false bomb threat to avoid an appointment at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The threat led to an evacuation and significant emergency response, highlighting the serious implications of such hoaxes. Charged with a felony, Williams faces up to 20 years in prison. The incident had a notable impact on local operations and serves as a reminder of the consequences of false threats on community resources.

Flint, Michigan – A 35-year-old woman, identified as Candice Williams, was arrested after allegedly making a false bomb threat to avoid attending an appointment. The incident occurred on July 14, 2025, when Williams called the county clerk’s office and falsely reported a bomb at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) office located in Flint.

The bomb threat was received shortly after 9 a.m., prompting immediate evacuation procedures for both the county clerk’s office and the MDHHS building. In response to the threat, emergency services, including police, fire departments, EMS, and explosive detection dogs, were deployed to assess the situation and secure the area.

Investigation into the threat revealed that Williams had placed the call from a nearby gas station. Authorities concluded that the bomb threat was unfounded, leading to her arrest by the Genesee County Sheriff’s officials. The response to the hoax not only disrupted services but also placed a significant strain on emergency responders, jeopardizing public safety resources.

Sheriff Chris Swanson highlighted the serious implications of such threats, stating that the panic they create within the community is substantial. The sheriff indicated that false reports of this nature consume vital resources that could be better utilized for genuine emergencies.

Candice Williams has been charged with making a false report or threat of terrorism, a serious offense that carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Following her arrest, she was brought before the Genesee County District Court for arraignment on July 19. Williams is set to appear in court again on July 31 for further proceedings.

The bomb threat situation resulted in a brief shutdown of the Genesee County Administration Building, impacting local operations and causing inconvenience to the public who had business in the area. The collaborative response from multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Flint Police Department, State Police, and University of Michigan law enforcement, ensured the area was secured and the potential threat thoroughly investigated.

This incident serves as a reminder of the severe consequences that come with making false threats, including legal repercussions and the disruption of community services. As law enforcement and emergency services continue to promote awareness about the dangers of such actions, individuals are urged to consider the far-reaching effects of their choices and the importance of responsible communication.