Oklahoma Man Indicted for Threatening ICE Agents
An Oklahoma resident has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly threatening to kill U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, “MAGA Republicans,” and various politicians via YouTube comments, as confirmed by the Justice Department.
Taylor Ryan Prigmore, 30, was taken into custody on Monday for comments he reportedly made between May 9 and January 17, according to federal prosecutors.
“As the incidents targeting law enforcement increase across the nation, the Department of Justice remains committed to identifying and prosecuting threats against those who serve us,” stated Attorney General Pam Bondi. She added, “Hiding behind a screen won’t shield you from severe legal repercussions.”
The FBI was alerted by Google about several threatening comments made by a user identified as Prigmore. This was according to a criminal complaint filed against him. Google informed the FBI that, “Based on the comments posted on YouTube, we believe there is a situation that could lead to imminent death or serious injury to someone, and certain information must be shared immediately to prevent this emergency.” The specific comment has since been deleted, but it was included in the communication to the FBI.
Prigmore reportedly used the username “Adrian Tepes” to post threats in various commentary threads. In one instance, on January 17, he allegedly wrote on a video about voting amendments, “Fuck you. I can’t wait for another chance to kill people like you. Tell your friends.”
In another comment on the same day, he stated, “You’re ridiculously late. Get ready for a civil suit. Get ready for a terrible crime. Get ready to kill a criminal.”
Moreover, Prigmore purportedly expressed intentions to kill federal agents and remarked that President Donald Trump “needs to die to save lives.” He also seemed to show anger towards Trump, particularly regarding the latter’s proposal to invoke the Insurrection Act in response to violence between ICE agents and anti-ICE protesters in Minnesota.
In his postings, Prigmore was quoted saying, “What is the Second Amendment for? The end of the world.” He reportedly encouraged others to purchase firearms and harm law enforcement officers.
As the Trump administration intensifies efforts to deport criminal illegal immigrants, threats against ICE personnel have reportedly surged.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated, “This individual is accused of making alarming statements about killing ICE agents. If you threaten those who uphold the law, the FBI and our partners will track you down and ensure you answer for your actions.” He emphasized, “There will be no free pass for intimidation against those who protect our communities.”
Prigmore faces potential penalties of up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He appeared in federal court on Monday and is being held pending trial.
