URGENT UPDATE: Authorities have arrested an Ohio man for allegedly making serious threats against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Anthony Kelly, from Cincinnati, faces federal charges for threatening to kidnap, assault, and murder U.S. officials, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
The arrest was confirmed by Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary for public affairs at DHS, on Saturday. “Thank you to our law enforcement,” McLaughlin stated on X, emphasizing that “these threats will not be tolerated.” The statement highlights the escalating danger faced by ICE agents, who have experienced a shocking 830% surge in assaults since January.
In a troubling social media investigation, authorities discovered posts linked to Kelly, where he explicitly threatened to shoot ICE agents and discussed plans to purchase a firearm. One post ominously declared, “You come here for me, you’re getting shot. … I’m shooting for the kill.” During a search of Kelly’s residence, law enforcement officials found a gun and ammunition, further substantiating the severity of the threats.
The arrest comes against a backdrop of increasing violence and threats against ICE agents, prompting calls for stronger legal action. Recently, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warned of an “unprecedented” threat level for ICE personnel, attributing the rise in violence to what she calls “lies” propagated by certain political factions.
In a memo released earlier this month, Noem directed the Justice Department to prosecute anyone involved in doxxing ICE agents—posting their photos and personal information—asserting, “We will prosecute those who dox ICE agents to the fullest extent of the law.” This statement reflects a growing concern over the safety of federal agents amid heightened rhetoric against immigration enforcement.
As the situation develops, DHS continues to monitor threats to ICE agents closely. The agency’s urgent commitment to ensuring the safety of its personnel underscores the critical challenges faced by law enforcement in today’s politically charged environment.
Authorities have made clear that anyone threatening the lives of federal officials will face severe legal repercussions. The community is urged to remain vigilant as investigations continue into this alarming trend of targeted violence against ICE personnel.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
