UPDATE: A Florida man has been arrested for allegedly posting violent death threats against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, raising concerns over escalating violence against law enforcement. The arrest occurred on December 4, 2023, in Fort Myers, Florida, as part of a broader crackdown on threats against ICE amid rising tensions.
The suspect, identified as Joseph Giancola, reportedly used the online pseudonym “Cain Delon” on the social media platform Bluesky. His posts included alarming messages such as, “Shoot the ICE Nazis down like the rabid dogs they are,” and “Get out your guns and shoot them down,” according to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Officials reported a staggering 8,000% increase in death threats against ICE agents, coinciding with the heightened rhetoric surrounding immigration enforcement. This surge in violent threats is part of a broader pattern, with DHS noting a more than 1,000% increase in assaults against ICE personnel.
“This cowardly individual made repeated disgusting death threats against ICE law enforcement officers. He is now in federal custody and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,”
stated Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of DHS. She emphasized the unprecedented level of violence facing ICE agents, highlighting threats against their families and the alarming normalization of such rhetoric in public discourse.
DHS has pointed fingers at political leaders and media figures for perpetuating hostile narratives, urging them to “tone down their rhetoric” concerning ICE. They stated, “Comparing ICE day-in and day-out to the Nazi Gestapo… has consequences,” calling for an end to the dehumanization of law enforcement officials who are merely executing their duties.
This incident raises significant concerns about the safety of law enforcement amid growing anti-ICE protests across the country. Earlier this month, another individual, Eduardo Aguilar, was arrested in Dallas for allegedly soliciting the murder of ICE agents via TikTok, offering $10,000 for the assassination of an officer.
As this situation develops, DHS remains committed to safeguarding its personnel and ensuring that those who threaten law enforcement face legal repercussions. With a climate of escalating threats, the department is on high alert, monitoring any further incidents that could jeopardize officer safety.
The public response to these events will be crucial as authorities continue to address the root causes of violence against ICE agents. As tensions rise, the implications of such threats not only affect law enforcement but also resonate deeply within communities nationwide.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as authorities continue to respond to the alarming rise in anti-ICE violence and threats.