BELLAIRE — The Brookside man accused of making threats toward the City of Martins Ferry over the weekend pleaded innocent at his preliminary hearing.

Ronald J. George, 60, of 10 Brookside Ave., Bridgeport, faces charges of inducing panic, a misdemeanor of the first degree, and menacing, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. George allegedly identified himself as a “terrorist” and threatened to “blow up” police officers, saying that terrorists were intending to blow up the city. Officers say they believe alcohol was a factor in his arrest Saturday.

His pre-trial appearance was scheduled for Aug. 28 and his bond was set at $2,300. His hearing was held in Belmont County Northern Division Court via video.