A Florida attorney was taken into custody after allegedly threatening to shoot ICE agents while trying to purchase a firearm, according to federal authorities.
Lisa White, who resides in Mississippi, was arrested in Long Beach after purportedly threatening to “kill federal agents” during her attempt to buy a gun and pepper spray, as outlined by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) release.
White was identified as an attorney in Florida by Homeland Security Investigations in a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Authorities noted that White inquired whether certain firearms could penetrate ballistic vests and stated that if they could not, she would aim for the agents’ heads instead.
Special agents from HSI Gulfport conducted interviews and subsequently arrested White.
This investigation was initiated on September 23 after an agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives tipped off HSI about an incident at High Caliber Guns, as detailed in a criminal complaint.
According to reports, White entered the firearms store around 11:30 a.m. and declared to the staff, “I need a gun.” She described herself as an activist and explained that she wanted a firearm for protection during protests, expressing concerns about the behavior of ICE agents.
However, she also indicated to a store employee that she wished to buy a gun to kill ICE agents. As they discussed available firearms, White gestured to her torso and questioned whether the guns could breach an agent’s armor. If not, she mentioned needing to aim for vulnerable spots like the head or limbs.
A shop employee reportedly cautioned White that threatening law enforcement could lead to lethal consequences. White reportedly responded, “If I have to die, I have to die.”
The employee suggested she consider pepper spray instead and recommended a shooting range for training. Although White looked at two pistols, she ultimately left without making a purchase, as the shop declined to finalize the sale and advised that she could return in a few days. Store staff then notified authorities, which led to the investigation.
Matthew Reidell, the HSI Gulfport Assistant Special Agent in Charge, emphasized the importance of the safety of federal personnel and expressed gratitude to citizens who report such threats.
White remains in custody as agents work on a federal charge related to threats against a federal official, according to ICE.
HSI made it clear that threats against federal law enforcement officers will not be tolerated and emphasized their commitment to investigating any threats made against those who protect the nation.
The arrest coincidentally comes amid a noted increase in threats and assaults against ICE personnel.
ICE report statistics indicating significant rises in assaults, vehicle attacks, and death threats against their officers, although specific numbers or timeframes were not provided. They noted that the administration has made it clear that acts of violence against law enforcement will lead to arrest and prosecution.
Fox News Digital has reached out to White for her comments on this situation.
