2/10/2025

ONEIDA COUNTY - The man accused of threatening Lakeland Times publisher Gregg Walker and Oneida County judge Michael Schiek has posted bond. Peter Thomas Gruich’s attorney petitioned the judge for a bond reduction earlier last week and was released from custody after posting a $2,000 bond, down from the original $40,000 bond. Gruich’s attorney said he regrets any contact with Kirk Bangstad or anyone associated with him. Gruich will return to court at a later date for his preliminary hearing on those threat charges. If convicted of threatening a judge, Gruich faces a maximum sentence of 6 years in prison and 90 days for threatening Gregg Walker.