Arrest Made for Threatening Letters to Conservative Influencer
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the arrest of a suspect she described as a “coward hiding behind a keyboard,” in connection with threatening letters sent to conservative figure Benny Johnson after the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
George Isbell Jr. was arrested this morning and is facing federal charges for sending threatening communications. The announcement was made in Tampa, Florida, where Johnson resides.
Bondi stated, “Benny is a well-known media personality who shares messages similar to Charlie’s, centered around faith and love for the country. Days after the tragic event, Benny received a disturbing letter at home. He’s focused on raising a beautiful family with Kate.” She further highlighted that the letter’s author expressed hatred for Benny due to his views and expressed a desire for him to be dead.
“This individual thought he could hide and get away with it,” Bondi remarked. “That’s why we’re taking a stand today. Intimidation like this won’t be tolerated. We are proud to have caught the author of this letter.”
She emphasized a robust warning to potential copycats, reflecting on the ongoing cycle of political violence in the country. “If you think you can act this way, think again,” Bondi cautioned. “We will track you down, no matter where you are. We cannot allow this kind of violence to persist.” This arrest, she added, should serve as a stern reminder against such behavior.
U.S. Attorney Gregory Kehoe from the Middle District of Florida shared that Johnson promptly contacted the Tampa Police Department after receiving the threat. The investigation was supported by the FBI and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, with the U.S. Postal Service tracing the letter back to San Diego, California, according to Kehoe.
Investigators used fingerprints from the letter to identify Isbell. Kehoe described the unsettling content of the letter, which included calls for violence against Johnson: “He suggested Mr. Johnson should be strangled with the Stars and Stripes, and there were some truly vicious remarks.”
Johnson, reflecting on the current atmosphere, stated, “I want peace in my country. I don’t advocate for political violence.” He noted a desire to engage in constructive arguments and raise his family in a peaceful environment.
He expressed his love for the country and emphasized the importance of unity, saying, “As Christians, we can’t make peace with evil or align with those who wish us harm.” Johnson wants to see a united nation, despite the divisive climate.
