Local Army of making threats

NW side man accused of threatening VA hospital, police

Author: Katrina Webber, Reporter, kwebber@ksat.com

Published On: Apr 06 2012 04:34:28 PM CDT  Updated On: Apr 06 2012 05:32:48 PM CDT

Local Army vet accused of making threats

SAN ANTONIO -

A Northwest side man has been arrested after he allegedly made threats on the internet to “shoot up” Veterans Administration hospitals and police stations.

Sergio Roden, 24, an Army veteran, was taken into custody Wednesday night at an apartment complex on Medical Drive.

He was released on his own recognizance the following day.

An arrest affidavit said Roden admitted to posting the threats on a blog on the internet site, Military.com. 

The affidavit said he threatened to “start shooting up VA hospitals and police stations” because he was angry that he had reached his limit on school financial aid from the military.

A blogger, taking the threats seriously, contacted the website administrator, who then notified San Antonio police, the affidavit said. The comment has since been removed from the website.

"I don't feel that way no more so it's not like that's going to happen," Roden said, when reached at his home Friday morning.

Roden said he was never serious about harming anyone, only frustrated with the system in place for receiving assistance.  He said a recent medical diagnosis may explain why he vented in such a way.

"I'm diagnosed with PTSD and mania,” Roden said. “I was upset because I felt like there were no programs out there available for every veteran so that they can be successful once they get out of the military."

Still, to police, it amounts to a crime. 

Roden is charged with making a false alarm or report.

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