Dennis Hernandez, the brother of late New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez, pleaded guilty in federal court Wednesday to making threats against the University of Connecticut and three people from other states.

Dennis John Hernandez, also known as “DJ Hernandez” and “Jonathan Hernandez,” 38, of Bristol, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty to interstate communications before U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford that contained a threat of harm, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Hernandez reportedly made multiple statements to an individual on Facebook Messenger on July 6 and July 7, 2023, threatening to carry out a shooting at UConn, court records show.

According to court documents, the messages said: “I would recommend staying away from there because if I go I will tear everything down. And it doesn’t matter who gets caught in the crossfire.” I’ve been dying for years now and now it’s other people’s turn. I am ready to give my life. So when I don’t see you from the outside, I know that I always love you. I realize that not all shootings are bad. Some are necessary for change to take place.”

Hernandez’s car was allegedly seen on the UConn campus on July 7, court records show.

On July 18 and 19, 2023, Hernandez made several Facebook posts in which he “threatened to harm or kill three people living out of state, including a state court judge,” officials said.

During a text message conversation with one of the people on July 19, 2023, Hernandez reportedly said, “We take lives if the money isn’t paid.” It took years just taking notes, planning names and locations. They talked their way into it and it’s almost a point game. I know we don’t play in my family. If we have to destroy lives or buildings, we will. Just letting you know so you can be prepared for a media circus one way or another.”

Hernandez faces a maximum of five years in federal prison during his sentencing on February 6, 2025. He has been in custody since his arrest on related state charges on July 19, 2023.

Originally published: December 18, 2024 at 5:13 pm EST