Murfreesboro detectives are investigating alleged death threats made against a candidate for the U.S. Congress.
This comes as tensions escalate over a proposed new Islamic Center in Rutherford County.
Republican candidate Lou Ann Zelenik is running for the 6th district Congressional seat and said she and her staff are dealing with some scary phone threats.
“They’re saying things you wouldn’t want to hear,” said Zelenik.
According to Zelenik, the threats target her, her staff and some supporters.
The alleged calls started coming late last week after Zelenik issued this statement critical of the proposed new Islamic Center: “This Islamic Center is not part of a religious movement; it is a political movement designed to fracture the moral and political foundation of middle Tennessee.”
The comment made news not just here, but across the country. Zelenik still stands by what she said,
“Those who know me know I’m not the politically correct candidate,” said Zelenik.
Zelenik and her staff have filed a report with the Murfreesboro police department.
“We always take that very seriously,” said Major Clyde Adkison.
Adkison said police were aware the proposed new Islamic Center has polarized the community. Already, someone vandalized the proposed center’s sign at the new site. And now there are alleged threats against Zelenik.
“You’re entitled to have your opinion, but violence? That’s no way to solve any problems at all,” said Adkison.
The Islamic Center of Murfreesboro hosted an open house this past weekend to help educate the public and clear up misconceptions. Members told Newschannel5 on Monday they do not condone violence or threats. Police say there is no evidence anyone local is responsible for the threatening phone calls.
Zelenik conceded many of the threatening calls appear to be coming from out of state. She said she’ll still take precautions while on the campaign trail.
“We have added patrols,” said Zelenik. “And we’ll watch our backsides a bit more.”