Ohio Man Accused of Threatening ICE Officers

The acting director of ICE has condemned an Ohio man who is facing federal charges for allegedly threatening to “shoot and kill an ICE officer.” He described the suspect’s online posts as “disgusting and totally indifferent.”

Anthony Kelly, 38, from Cincinnati, had reportedly shared a message that read, “#RevolutionIsTheSolution #Destroyice,” likening ICE agents to “rabid dogs.” Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE, expressed strong condemnation of Kelly’s threats. “Let me be clear: threatening federal officers isn’t a form of protest—it’s a terrorist act,” he emphasized. He also mentioned that such threats reflect a larger issue where political figures are targeting law enforcement, creating an atmosphere of fear. “Enough is enough. Anyone who targets ICE personnel will face swift consequences,” he added.

Kelly was arrested on July 19 by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI. He faces charges for threatening to assault or kill U.S. officials and sending intimidating communications. According to ICE, multiple social media posts from a user named “Slab” called for the murder of ICE agents and discussed accessing weapons for such actions. This user was later identified as Kelly.

In his posts, Kelly reportedly expressed violent intentions, stating that anyone who approached him would be shot, dismissing their identities entirely. He is currently in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.

A representative from HSI stressed that threats of violence against federal law enforcement are not protected by free speech. “When there’s a high risk to personal safety, ICE officers will enforce the laws created by Congress. If citizens disagree with these laws, they should communicate with their representatives instead of resorting to threats,” he said.