An Ohio man has been charged with federal crimes for making violent threats against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and supporters of former President Donald Trump. Justin Novoa, 21, of Columbus, is facing multiple charges after posting threats online that targeted not only federal law enforcement officers but also political groups and individuals.
Details of the Threatening Posts
According to a federal complaint, Novoa used his X (formerly Twitter) account throughout 2025 to make violent threats against ICE agents, Trump supporters, white people, and Jewish citizens. Some of the posts included messages like, “Can’t wait to shoot these p— ICE agents and r—ed MAGA maggots.” He also allegedly posted, “Blast every ICE agent” and expressed violent intentions toward individuals he opposed.
In one post from May 2025, Novoa is said to have written, “I have a m4 carbine ready to use on these r—ed filthy subhuman rats.” In another post, he declared, “May the resistance stand tall” in January 2025. These statements were included in the federal complaint as evidence of his intent to incite violence.
Federal Investigation and Weapons Seizure
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was alerted to Novoa’s online threats in December 2025. Following an investigation, federal agents executed a search warrant at Novoa’s residence that same month. During the search, they seized a cache of firearms, including two rifles, two shotguns, a handgun, ammunition, helmets, and body armor, all of which were reportedly in his possession.
Charges and Penalties
Novoa has been charged with making threatening interstate communications, including threats to assault or murder a federal law enforcement officer.
The Justice Department has emphasized the seriousness of the charges, noting that threatening to kill a federal officer is punishable by up to 10 years in prison, and making threatening interstate communications carries a potential penalty of up to five years in prison.
Novoa’s Custody Status
Novoa is currently being held without bond in Franklin County Jail, awaiting further legal proceedings. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of Novoa’s threats and any possible connections to real-world violence or terrorist activity.
