Columbus, Ohio — A 26-year-old Ohio man has been charged in federal court after authorities say he sent graphic threats to kill President Donald Trump and Republican Rep. Randy Fine of Florida.
The Justice Department identified the suspect as Alex Miller. Prosecutors allege Miller emailed Fine with threats against the congressman and his family, including language about beheading Fine and a declaration of “DEATH TO DONALD TRUMP!!” The message also contained antisemitic and Nazi-related insults directed at Fine, who is Jewish.
According to federal investigators, the threat was reported and traced quickly, with the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Capitol Police and Brevard County Sheriff’s Office working together. Miller was arrested within roughly 36 hours.
Fine said after the arrest that political disagreement cannot justify threats of violence and that such conduct has no place in American politics.
The case comes amid heightened concern over threats against elected officials from across the political spectrum. Prosecutors will still have to show that Miller’s alleged statements constituted a legally actionable “true threat,” rather than protected political speech.
If convicted on the federal threat charge, Miller could face up to five years in prison.
Sources
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