Statements from the FBI, Department of Justice, or court documents

FBI Investigates Racist Texts Instructing Recipients to Pick Cotton After Election Day

Nov 7, 2024, 11:07 PM

Law enforcement agencies across multiple states are investigating racist and offensive text messages sent to individuals after Election Day. The messages, which have been reported in Alabama, California, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and other states, contain racially derogatory content referencing slavery and instruct recipients to report to plantations to pick cotton. One of the messages begins with 'Greetings! You have been selected to pick cotton at the nearest plantation.' The FBI has acknowledged awareness of the messages, issuing a statement that they are in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter. Local police departments, including those in Clemson and Upper Darby, are advising residents and students who receive these 'deplorable' and 'racially motivated' messages to report them immediately.