Multiple Threats Made on Social Media
A man has been arrested for allegedly posting a series of threats on social media. The account, which featured dozens of nearly identical threats, targeted various individuals and institutions, including politicians, judges, government buildings, and the military.
The suspect, identified as Russ Warren, made explicit threats to drop a bomb on the nation’s capital and specific government agencies such as the National Security Agency, Internal Revenue Service, and the Department of Homeland Security. In his posts, Warren called for a complete evacuation of the capital and stated his intention to bomb the FBI Headquarters.
Targeting Politicians and Government Officials
Warren’s threats extended beyond government agencies, with specific individuals also being targeted. He condemned and called for the execution of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, advocating for their imprisonment and hanging. Additionally, Warren made threats against other administration officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Furthermore, Warren directed threats towards both Republican and Democratic figures who ran for president during the recent election cycle. Individuals such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, South Carolina Senator Tim Scott, author Marianne Williamson, and lawyer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. were among those targeted.
Threats of Nuclear Weapons
The suspect also made alarming threats regarding the use of nuclear weapons. Warren targeted iconic landmarks such as Mt. Rushmore, the Statue of Liberty, all national parks, and even Disney theme parks.
History of Threats and Charges
According to an investigation by the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center, Warren’s case marks the 12th instance of federal charges involving threats to a public official this year. Since 2013, charges have been filed against 579 individuals for similar offenses.
Warren faces one count of threats against the president and successors to the presidency, which is a felony carrying a maximum sentence of five years in prison. He has been ordered to be temporarily held without bond until a detention hearing scheduled for Friday.
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation into Warren began after the U.S. Secret Service and FBI became aware of the threats posted on the suspect’s social media account. Authorities were able to obtain subscriber information from the account’s service provider, which led them to Warren’s IP address. The address was traced back to cable company Charter Communications, which confirmed that Warren was the subscriber using that IP address.
The suspect’s identity was further supported by a post in which he introduced himself as Russ and claimed to have suffered a stroke. Warren has a criminal history, including a prior conviction for assault with a dangerous weapon in 2022.