Texas Man Who Threatened ICE Agents and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Remains in Custody

Texas Man Who Threatened ICE Agents and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Remains in Custody

A Texas man has been ordered to stay in jail after allegedly making threatening statements against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Robert King, aged 35, faces federal charges for transmitting interstate threats.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Renee Toliver made her ruling during a hearing in Dallas on Wednesday, confirming that King poses a flight risk as well as a risk to the community. This decision came despite arguments from King’s attorney stating that he had no previous criminal history, did not possess any weapons, and was actively seeking help for mental health issues such as depression and suicidal thoughts.

King reacted emotionally to the decision, reportedly shedding tears as he exited the courtroom.

Details of the Threats Made by King

According to court documents, King was arrested in McKinney, Texas, on March 29 for posting threatening messages on Facebook directed at ICE agents and Secretary Noem. His posts included a disturbing message in which he expressed a desire for Noem to face a “horrible demise” akin to that of war criminals, asserting that America has transformed into a Nazi-fascist state.

In a later post, King escalated his threats, describing ICE agents as a “secret police force with no real legal authority.” He declared that he would “open fire” on them if they entered his neighborhood, further intensifying fears over his intentions.

Escalation of Threats on Social Media

Federal prosecutors highlighted a follow-up post where King reaffirmed his violent intentions. He warned others to resort to lethal measures against ICE agents, using inflammatory language to incite further violence. This included a chilling directive to “just wanna double down on what I said the other day: if ICE comes to your neighborhood, shoot them and kill them. No mercy for the Gestapo.”

Investigation and Community Response

King’s threats reportedly came to the attention of authorities via the FBI’s national tip line, illustrating the diligence of law enforcement in monitoring potential threats to public safety. The case raises critical concerns regarding the impact of social media on public discourse and the responsibility of individuals in expressing violent sentiments online.

At the time of his threats, King was living with his sister and brother-in-law, who works as a police officer and has previously served as a Customs and Border Protection agent. Following his arrest, he was asked to leave the residence due to the serious nature of his threats.

Future Legal Proceedings

As King remains in custody at Kaufman County detention center, his attorney is advocating for a transfer to a facility that would provide him access to mental health care and medications. The legal ramifications of King’s case underscore the complexities surrounding free speech, mental health issues, and public safety.

The court’s decision to detain King was influenced by the seriousness of his threats and the potential danger he poses to others. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor such cases closely to prevent real acts of violence stemming from online threats.

Implications for Community Safety

The case has sparked discussions about the broader implications of threats made on social media platforms. Authorities emphasize the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious or threatening behavior to prevent escalation into real-world violence.

As investigations continue, residents are urged to remain aware of their surroundings and report any concerns they may have regarding threats against public officials or community members.

In conclusion, the legal proceedings against Robert King serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with online threats, the importance of community safety, and the complex interplay between mental health and criminal behavior.

Fox News Digital’s reporting contributed to this story.