An extensive FBI investigation has resulted in the sentencing of a Sacramento area man to five years probation for his bizarre attempt to shut down California’s power grid. United States Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced today that Lonnie Denison, 33, was sentenced today by a United States District Judge to six months home confinement and five years’ probation for damaging an energy facility run by California Independent Systems Operator Corporation, or CAL-ISO, a not-for-profit public benefit corporation charged with operating the majority of California’s high voltage wholesale power grid.

Denison was a contract computer technician at CAL-ISO on the date of the incident, April 15, 2007. His plan for destruction was said to have been extensive and elaborate. According to Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Reardon, who prosecuted the case, the government argued for six months in prison. However, the court concurred with the recommendation of the United States Probation Office that Denison should be sentenced to home confinement instead of imprisonment. Judge Burrell noted the positive steps taken by the defendant since his arrest in April 2007, including maintaining his sobriety and seeking mental health treatment and counseling.