Columbus Man Indicted for Threats Against Federal Immigration Agents
A man from Columbus, Ohio, has been indicted on federal charges after he allegedly issued violent threats on social media aimed at federal immigration officials. Authorities discovered rifles, ammunition, and body armor at his home during a subsequent investigation.
Justin Mesael Novoa, 21, faces charges for interstate threatening communications, which include threats to assault and kill federal law enforcement agents. The Department of Justice (DOJ) made the announcement on Thursday.
According to court documents, last month, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) received information about the threats directed toward U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Investigators noted that Novoa made a post on June 8, 2025, under the username @Father2High, stating, “We should blow up all the ice we find.”
Prosecutors revealed that the same account later issued another alarming message on November 9, 2025. It read, “I can’t wait to shoot this damn ice cream and rabid maggot.”
In December 2025, federal agents executed a search warrant at Novoa’s home. During the search, they reportedly seized two rifles, two shotguns, a handgun, and a stash of ammunition. Additionally, investigators found two helmets and a bulletproof vest.
Interestingly, there were also pictures in his residence showing pro-Palestinian flags alongside firearms and bulletproof vests. This adds another layer to an already tense situation.
The potential consequences for threatening a federal officer are serious. Prosecutors noted that this could lead to a maximum of 10 years in prison. Meanwhile, interstate threatening communication could carry a sentence of up to five years.
The case is being overseen by U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II and ICE Acting Special Agent Jared Murphy. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Pritchard is handling the prosecution.
As of now, the DOJ has not indicated whether there will be further charges, and thankfully, no injuries have been reported in connection with Novoa’s threats.
