Man Sentenced to Jail for Stalking Indian-American Congresswoman

A 49-year-old man in Washington state, USA, has been sentenced to 364 days in jail after pleading guilty to stalking Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, according to media reports.

Brett Forsell entered a plea of misdemeanor stalking in Seattle’s King County Superior Court, resulting in the reduction of the original felony charge.

The incident took place a year ago when Forsell, armed with a handgun, was arrested outside Jayapal’s residence. Despite being released four days later due to uncertainty surrounding specific threats, Forsell was later charged with repeated harassment and intimidation. Jayapal, the first Indian-American woman elected to the US House of Representatives, expressed fear for her safety.

Forsell was found to be carrying a loaded handgun during his arrest and was recorded making threatening remarks. As part of his sentencing, he is prohibited from contacting Jayapal and possessing firearms for eight years.