URGENT UPDATE: A man from Cincinnati, Ohio, has been arrested for making serious threats against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Anthony Kelly is facing federal charges for allegedly threatening to kidnap, assault, and murder a U.S. official, as confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Saturday.
Authorities revealed that Kelly’s threats were made through social media, where he expressed intentions to shoot ICE agents. Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for public affairs at DHS, stated, “These threats will not be tolerated. You will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” This arrest underscores the escalating dangers that ICE agents face due to increasing anti-ICE sentiment.
In a chilling social media post, Kelly allegedly wrote, “You come here for me, you’re getting shot… I’m shooting for the kill.” During a search of Kelly’s residence, law enforcement discovered one gun and ammunition. McLaughlin highlighted that these threats are part of a broader trend, with assaults on ICE personnel surging by an alarming 830% since January 2023.
The backdrop to this arrest includes mounting concerns over the doxxing of ICE agents, where individuals’ personal information is publicly shared, leading to increased threats and violence. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has warned that this environment poses an unprecedented threat level to ICE agents, attributing it to “lies” from Democratic politicians.
In a recent memo, Noem emphasized the department’s commitment to prosecuting those who engage in doxxing, stating, “We will prosecute those who dox ICE agents to the fullest extent of the law.” This statement reflects the administration’s stance against individuals who side with “vicious cartels and human traffickers.”
As this situation develops, the national discourse surrounding ICE operations and the safety of its agents continues to gain traction. Observers are urged to monitor further updates from DHS, as officials remain vigilant in addressing threats against federal personnel.
The arrest of Anthony Kelly is a stark reminder of the potential repercussions of heated political rhetoric. Authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of ICE agents, who are increasingly under threat as tensions rise.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
