re: Need advice on handling workplace violence/threat/harassment.

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She told me that they are concerned that I am merely trying to "recruit others into the fold to ensure the guy loses his job." She also made it clear that I would be disciplined, and a secondary investigation would be opened if I were to tell others within the plant of the existence of the text message, and the fact that an investigation into the manager is underway. She basically told me to keep my mouth shut, and only talk to my employees about work, and nothing or nobody else.

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The first part is concerning, but the other is pretty boilerplate. They are trying to get a read on the issue without extra influence but they are also trying their damnedest to limit the company's exposure. Getting a lawyer involved was the 2nd smartest thing you've done in this (the first was keeping that moron's text).

From now on, make sure your responses to HR are via email. Here's an example:

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HR Person,
Pursuant to our conversation earlier today when you came by my office, I understand that you are concerned about my possibly trying to "recruit others into the fold to ensure the guy loses his job", but I wish to assure you that is not the case. Also, while this investigation is underway I also understand, per that same conversation, that I am not to discuss this with no one else who works here.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to reply to this email as I look forward to our being able to resolve this issue together.

Sincerely,
-Big G.

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They'll know exactly what you are doing and if they are trying to screw you over you'll get a rather robust and verbose response (which you will let your lawyer know about).

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The Attorney said if I am still in an office with this person by Thursday, he will submit a petition to the company to place either me or the other person on paid administrative leave until proper action is taken, or legal intervention will be initiated.

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You will know within minutes when the company receives the petition. The last thing any company wants is to have to go through proceedings where they were obviously negligent in addressing such a blatant workplace threat. Whether or not you realize it, you've had the company by the balls since he sent that text. They likely did not think you would retain counsel, so they were slow-walking it while they looked for a way to blame it all on you or just hope you eventually let it go (and possibly left of your own accord). Each day which passes without some disciplinary action against him just tightens your grip.