‘Radicalized, Dangerous’ Man Threatened Trump, Tulsi Gabbard and White House: FBI

Tulsi Gabbard, the United States Director of National Intelligence, recently extended her gratitude to federal and local law enforcement agencies for apprehending a man from Georgia who allegedly made violent threats against her, former President Donald Trump, and other high-profile government officials.

FBI and Law Enforcement Apprehend Georgia Man Behind Violent Threats

In a statement posted on X, Gabbard praised the efforts of the FBI, US Marshals, and local law enforcement, saying, “Thank you @FBI, @USMarshalsHQ, and local law enforcement for your service and dedication in apprehending this radicalized, dangerous criminal who repeatedly threatened the lives of me, my family, and @realDonaldTrump. Thank you for your tireless work every day keeping the American people safe.” The man, identified as Shawn Monper, 32, was charged with making threats to assault and murder President Trump, other government officials, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The arrest has raised concerns about the growing threat of online radicalization and violent extremism.

The Threats: A Pattern of Violent Rhetoric

Monper, who used the online pseudonym “Mr Satan,” was linked to disturbing online content that included multiple threats against high-profile figures. According to the Department of Justice, the FBI received an emergency message about a YouTube user named “Mr Satan” who had posted multiple threats that matched Monper’s details. In one chilling post on February 17, Monper wrote, “Nah, we just need to start killing people, Trump, Elon, all the heads of agencies Trump appointed, and anyone who stands in the way.” He continued, “We are the majority; MAGA is a minority of the country, and by the time it’s time to make the move, they will be weakened, many will be crushed by these policies, and they will want revenge too. American Revolution 2.0.” On March 4, in another YouTube video titled “Live: Trump’s address to Congress,” Monper directly threatened the President, saying he was “going to assassinate him myself.”

Monper’s Radicalization and History of Gun Purchases

Monper’s radicalization appears to have intensified following Trump’s 2016 election. According to the Department of Justice, Monper obtained a firearms permit shortly after Trump’s inauguration and made comments online about buying several guns and stocking up on ammunition. This raised concerns about his access to firearms and his potential to carry out his threats. Monper’s connection to Butler, Pennsylvania—where an assassination attempt on Trump occurred during a rally in 2020—adds a disturbing layer to the case. In July of that year, a would-be assassin’s bullet grazed Trump’s ear, injuring several others and killing one person. Monper’s proximity to the area has raised further concerns about the reach of his violent rhetoric.

Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation

The Department of Justice has vowed to prosecute Monper to the fullest extent of the law. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a statement confirming that the Department of Justice would “find, arrest, and prosecute” anyone making threats of violence or assassination, emphasizing that such actions would be met with the highest legal consequences. A detention hearing for Monper is scheduled for April 14, and it is expected that the investigation will continue to examine any other potential threats linked to his radicalized activities. The case highlights the critical role of law enforcement in addressing online extremism and ensuring the safety of public officials and citizens alike.