The New York Police Department springs into action after a concerning threat targeting the iconic Saturday Night Live studios at 30 Rockefeller Center emerges in Manhattan.

According to PEOPLE, Michael Branham, 48, of Glen Head, N.Y., was arrested on Wednesday, April 2, following a bomb threat reported to authorities through a Connecticut college targeting the Saturday Night Live studios.

The incident unfolded early Tuesday morning when the NYPD received notification of a potential threat within the Midtown North Precinct. Law enforcement officials quickly launched an investigation into the matter, leading to Branham's arrest the following day. The suspect now faces serious charges related to making threats of mass harm and falsely reporting an incident.

Potential Connection to SNL Cast Member

Initial investigations reveal a possible link between the suspect and SNL cast member Colin Jost through his wife, actress Scarlett Johansson.

Court records indicate that Johansson had previously sought a restraining order against someone sharing Branham's name in California. The protective order request was ultimately denied due to technical issues.

The threat's discovery prompted immediate action from law enforcement, though authorities later determined it lacked credibility. Despite the assessment, the NYPD maintained thorough security protocols around the historic entertainment venue. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of high-profile entertainment venues and their personnel.

Security measures at 30 Rockefeller Center underwent careful review following the threat. The iconic building, home to numerous NBC productions including SNL, continues to operate under enhanced vigilance to ensure the safety of staff, performers, and visitors.

Legal Defense Claims Online Scam Involvement

Branham's attorney, Jamie Niskanen-Singer, presented an unexpected defense strategy during court proceedings. The legal representative spoke about her client's complex history with online deception, suggesting a potential setup.

Public defender Niskanen-Singer addressed the court regarding the case's unusual circumstances. She argued for a reduction in Branham's $100,000 bail, citing her client's previous victimization by online scammers who had posed as Scarlett Johansson. The defense raised the possibility that these same scammers might be responsible for the threats.

According to Niskanen-Singer's statement to the court:

He has given out information. He may have been hacked, your honor. It's very possible here that there is someone that is setting him up.

Investigation Status and Current Developments

The case continues to develop as authorities gather additional evidence and investigate potential connections. Representatives for both SNL and Johansson have maintained silence regarding the incident, declining to comment on the ongoing investigation. Multiple attempts by media outlets to reach involved parties have gone unanswered.

Law enforcement officials remain committed to thoroughly investigating all aspects of the case. The incident highlights the increasing challenges faced by entertainment venues in maintaining security while remaining accessible to the public.

Investigators continue working to untangle the complex web of online interactions and potential motivations behind the threat.

Case Summary and Future Proceedings

Michael Branham faces serious legal consequences after allegedly communicating a bomb threat targeting the Saturday Night Live studios at 30 Rockefeller Center. The incident, reported through a Connecticut college, prompted swift action from the NYPD and resulted in the suspect's arrest on April 2.

The case involves multiple elements, including potential connections to SNL cast member Colin Jost's wife Scarlett Johansson, claims of online scams, and questions about the true source of the threats.

As legal proceedings continue, Branham maintains his innocence through his attorney's defense strategy, suggesting possible third-party involvement in the incident.