White Bear Lake Man Arrested After Alleged Threats Against Local Church
WHITE BEAR LAKE, MINNESOTA: A White Bear Lake man is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly sending a series of violent and threatening emails to members of a local church, prompting an intensive investigation by law enforcement.
Arrest and Charges
According to the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office, John Allan Sandeen, Jr., 64, of Mora, was arrested on September 17, 2025, at an airport hangar in Rush City after investigators traced threatening emails directed at White Bear Lake Methodist Church staff and associates. Officers recovered multiple electronic devices, shotgun shells, and other ammunition from his vehicle and hangar during a search warrant execution.
Sandeen is charged with:
Felony Stalking (Minnesota Statute 609.749.5(a)) – punishable by up to 10 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine.
Felony Threats of Violence – Reckless Disregard of Risk (Minnesota Statute 609.713.1) – punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
Bail was initially set at $200,000, and a Ramsey County judge issued an order of detention keeping Sandeen in custody. Court records filed September 19 show that conditional release is possible if Sandeen meets strict requirements, including a cash bond, abstaining from alcohol and drugs, random testing, and a prohibition on firearms or weapons. On September 19, 2025, his bail was adjusted to $100,000.
Details from the Complaint
The investigation began on September 15, 2025, when one of the church’s music directors reported receiving numerous threatening emails from Sandeen. This music director, who had known Sandeen for decades, told police that the messages began after Sandeen attended a Beatles tribute concert at the church on September 7.
During the concert, band members engaged in light political banter, which prosecutors say appeared to anger Sandeen. In the days following, Sandeen allegedly sent escalating emails to JK and another musician, threatening extreme violence.
Among the statements detailed in the complaint:
Threats to “cut throats” and “drink their blood.”
Warnings that [one of the directors] should “have eyeballs on his back.”
Statements that [the other director] should “run and hide,” coupled with threats to break his fingers so he could never play piano again.
A message declaring “It’s on mother f***er” and claims of being at “war.”
Both music directors told investigators they feared Sandeen would act on his threats, particularly given past comments about firearms and Sandeen’s claim that he had “nothing to lose” due to health issues.
Court Proceedings
During questioning, Sandeen reportedly admitted to writing at least one of the emails but said he had been drinking and “said some crazy shit.” He later requested an attorney. The court has since authorized conditional release under close supervision, pending the posting of bail in the amount of $100,000. Conditions include drug and alcohol testing, compliance with monitoring programs, a ban on firearms, and a requirement to complete a comprehensive assessment.
Sandeen’s next hearing is scheduled for October 8th, 2025, in Ramsey County District Court.
Community Response
In a statement, the White Bear Lake Police Department emphasized that public safety remains its top priority and thanked detectives, staff, and partner agencies for their swift work in locating and arresting Sandeen.
Provided by the Ramsey County Jail.
Written by: Juan Perez
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