Illinois Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Campus-Related Harassment Charge

Stay informed, stay empowered: invest in the journalism that invests in you. DECORAH — A 20-year-old Illinois man who drew alarm last fall after posting threatening messages referencing Luther College has been sentenced following a guilty plea to a reduced charge. Peter Lincoln Bumba, 20, appeared in Winneshiek County District Court on June 11, where he was formally sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of second-degree harassment—threatening bodily injury, a serious misdemeanor under Iowa law. The charge stems from a November 25, 2024, incident that originally resulted in a felony terrorism charge. Bumba admitted in court filings to posting alarming messages on Instagram. The posts prompted significant concern within the Luther College community, leading campus security to involve local law enforcement. He later told investigators he had been venting frustration over not being cast in a campus play. Under the plea agreement, Bumba was sentenced to 365 days in jail with credit for time served; the remainder of the sentence was suspended. He was placed on probation for two years under the supervision of the First Judicial District Department of Correctional Services. He is also required to pay a $430 fine and up to $500 in Category B restitution or community service in lieu of payment in addition to several other probation requirements. Stay informed, stay inspired! Newsletter sign up is free and join hundreds of free subscribers who rely on DecorahNews.com for trusted information and fresh perspectives.