Marine veteran accused of threatening to shoot schoolchildren released

As his legal representative shared, a Marine veteran who was previously incarcerated on a $1 million bond for threatening to shoot elementary school children in online videos is currently receiving mental health treatment and has been released from custody.

In January, Groton Town police charged Aaron Stanislav, 34, of Groton, with first-degree threatening with intent to terrorize, a felony, after they discovered numerous livestreamed recordings in which he discussed the murder of schoolchildren. 

According to an arrest affidavit, Stanislav stated in a video: "You know, I could go to an elementary school and plug every single (expletive) kid they had and then go to the next elementary school and all the elementary schools after that and get rid of all the kids. I would be a happy camper." No, I would slaughter them all.

Sean Kelly, the public defender, reports that Stanislav, a former Marine with combat experience who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, is currently undergoing treatment through the Department of Veterans Affairs and has stabilized since what he referred to as a "crisis moment" in January.

Stanislav was already under probation supervision at the time of the alleged threats, following his arrest in 2023 at the vacant state-owned Mystic Education Center. On the 77-acre property, police discovered ammunition, a high-capacity magazine, body armor, and evidence that he had jury-rigged power to a building at the time.

Additionally, the police report shows that the Connecticut State Police Intelligence Operations Unit was requested to conduct a behavioral health assessment on Jan. 7 due to concerns that he was not adhering to his prescribed medication regimen and was abusing alcohol. 

Stanislav was under suspicion of residing at the abandoned education center, according to investigators. A VFW in Stonington eventually apprehended him on January 20.

As per court records, Stanislav was initially found to be incompetent to stand trial and was subsequently transferred to the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. He was subsequently determined to be competent. His involvement in a supervised diversionary program may ultimately result in the dismissal of charges.

Kelly stated that there is no evidence to suggest that Stanislav had access to weapons at the time of his arrest, as he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition by a court order. His subsequent court appearance in New London Superior Court is due on October 17.

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