Exclusive: Man Charged With Threatening McDowell Clerk of Court, Held on $250,000 bond

A McDowell County man is facing a felony charge after investigators say he made explicit threats against a local court official, according to newly filed records in McDowell District Court.

Robert Shawn Hall, 63, of Old Fort, was charged March 31 with one count of threatening an executive, legislative, or court official, a felony offense under North Carolina General Statute 14-16.7. The charge stems from statements authorities say Hall made a day earlier during an interaction with law enforcement.

According to a warrant for arrest, Hall is accused of making a direct and violent threat toward McDowell County Clerk of Court Melissa Adams. The alleged threat was reported to a deputy with the McDowell County Sheriff's Office, who is listed in court records as the complainant in the case.

Charging documents state that Hall “unlawfully, willfully, and feloniously” made the threat to kill the elected court official. The warrant includes detailed language describing the statements allegedly made by Hall, which investigators say were directed at Adams in connection with prior grievances involving courthouse staff.

Authorities allege the incident occurred on March 30 in McDowell County. Hall was arrested the following day and brought before a magistrate, who issued the warrant and ordered him held pending a first court appearance.

During a first appearance hearing held April 1, a district court judge reviewed the charge and set conditions of release. Hall’s bond was ultimately set at $250,000 secured, meaning he must post the full amount or obtain a surety bond to be released from custody.

Court records show the bond amount was later amended but remained secured at the same level. The order reflects heightened concern from judicial officials about the nature of the alleged threat and Hall’s prior conduct.

As part of the release conditions, Hall is prohibited from having any contact with Adams. He is also barred from entering any courthouse office unless escorted by law enforcement and only for official court-related business.

The release order includes additional findings by the court, citing what officials described as a “pattern of behavior” involving Hall coming to the courthouse and confronting clerks about past issues. The order further states that Hall has “stated his displeasure for courthouse staff numerous times” and expressed contempt toward court personnel.

Judicial officials also noted that Hall was already under bond in another case at the time of the alleged offense. Records indicate the new charge was filed while he was on pretrial release, a factor that can weigh heavily in determining bond and conditions of release under North Carolina law.

In addition, the court’s findings reference a prior bond related to misuse of the 911 system, though details of that case were not included in the same file.

Because of those factors, the court imposed what is known as a pretrial integrity hold — a designation that reflects concern about a defendant’s likelihood to comply with court orders and conditions if released.

Hall waived his right to a court-appointed attorney during his initial appearance, according to court minutes. Records list a privately retained attorney in the case.

The case remains in its early stages, with no plea entered and no determination of guilt. Under state law, the charge requires prosecutors to establish that a defendant knowingly and willfully made a threat against a qualifying public official, including court personnel, and that the threat was communicated in a manner that could reasonably be interpreted as serious.

Legal experts note that threats against public officials — particularly those working within the judicial system — are treated as serious offenses due to concerns about safety and the administration of justice.

The case has been scheduled for a probable cause hearing on April 22 in McDowell County District Court. At that hearing, a judge will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to move the case forward to superior court, where felony matters are typically handled.

Court records indicate an earlier probable cause hearing setting was canceled and replaced with the current April 22 date.

If the case is bound over, it could be presented to a grand jury for possible indictment.

The documents do not indicate whether Hall has posted bond or remains in custody as of the latest filing.

The McDowell County Clerk of Court’s office handles a wide range of judicial functions, including maintaining court records, managing filings, and supporting both district and superior court proceedings. Clerks and courthouse staff often interact directly with members of the public, including individuals involved in ongoing legal disputes.

Law enforcement agencies and court officials have increasingly emphasized security in and around courthouses in response to threats or confrontational behavior. Policies such as restricted access and escorted entry, like those ordered in this case, are designed to protect both staff and the public while ensuring court operations can continue safely.

The allegations outlined in the warrant represent the state’s account of what occurred and have not been tested in court.

Hall is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

No statements have been released by officials.