A 33-year-old Ohio man, Shannon Mathre of Toledo, has been charged with threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance. The charges stem from alleged threats made during Vance’s visit to Ohio in January. Mathre’s attorney stated his health makes it unlikely he could have carried out the threat, citing “some mental disabilities and a variety of other conditions.”
Threats and Investigation
According to the Department of Justice, Mathre allegedly stated he would locate Vice President Vance and “use my M14 automatic gun and kill him.” Federal investigators seized Mathre’s Samsung phone on January 21 as part of their investigation, which extended beyond the initial online threat to examine his actions and behavior.
Attorney General Pam Bondi stated, “Our attorneys are vigorously prosecuting this disgusting threat against Vice President Vance. You can hide behind a screen, but you cannot hide from this Department of Justice.” U.S. Attorney David M. Toepfer for the Northern District of Ohio added that hostile and violent threats against public officials “will not be tolerated.”
Recent Incidents and Current Status
This incident is not isolated. Last month, another Ohio man was arrested for breaking windows at Vice President Vance’s home. A California man was charged in January with allegedly threatening to kill Vance during a trip to Disneyland.
Vice President Vance is currently in Milan, Italy, attending the Winter Olympic Games with Second Lady Usha Vance, who recently announced the couple is expecting their fourth child.
Mathre appeared in court on Friday and is scheduled to return on Wednesday for a hearing to determine whether he will remain in custody.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific charges does Shannon Mathre face?
Shannon Mathre is charged with making threats against the president and successors to the presidency, as well as receipt and distribution of child pornography.
What did the Secret Service say about the investigation?
The Secret Service stated the investigation went beyond the initial online threat to examine Mathre’s actions and behavior, and that the safety and security of those they protect is paramount.
What is the potential penalty if Mathre is convicted?
If convicted, Mathre could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for threatening the Vice President’s life, and up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possessing child sex-abuse materials.
As investigations continue into threats against public officials, what role do you believe social media platforms should play in preventing the spread of violent rhetoric?
