Michigan Man Arrested for Threatening to Kill Trump Over Policies

A former U.S. Air Force airman from Michigan has been arrested for allegedly threatening to kill President Donald Trump in response to the administration’s policies regarding LGBTQ+ rights. According to federal court records made public on October 7, 2023, Joshua Levi Young, 21, from Ishpeming, faces charges for issuing multiple threats since January, including statements such as “Death to Trump” and “Kill the dictator.”

The U.S. Secret Service detained Young following a detention hearing where U.S. Magistrate Judge Maarten Vermaat ordered him to be held without bond. The charges against Young include threatening to kill the president and transmitting an interstate threat, both of which are classified as five-year felonies.

Investigators began looking into Young after receiving an anonymous tip in mid-September indicating that he had made threats against Trump on social media platforms. Subsequent investigations revealed a series of alarming posts on Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). One particularly troubling post stated, “I am going to kill Trump raise him from the dead and kill him again.”

Young’s identity as the author of these posts was confirmed through public records, allowing Special Agent Adam Rogers to identify him. On October 7, agents, along with an Ishpeming Police sergeant, interviewed Young at his home. During this interview, Young expressed his frustration with the administration, stating, “I don’t like what he’s doing,” while referring to Trump. He described himself as a gay and non-binary individual who aligns with the LGBTQ community, expressing anger over the administration’s policies affecting LGBTQ rights.

In addition to his grievances on LGBTQ issues, Young shared his discontent regarding the administration’s approach to immigration rights. “I hurt when others hurt,” he reportedly stated, acknowledging he authored the threatening posts. He further explained his frustration with the perceived lack of support from the government for the American populace.

Following the interview, investigators searched Young’s residence, seizing electronic devices that may contain further evidence. Shortly thereafter, a staff member at a local Veterans’ Affairs clinic contacted law enforcement, reporting that Young had sought legal assistance due to considerations about fleeing the country. The employee noted that Young appeared to be exploring which nations do not extradite to the United States.

This case highlights a growing concern regarding violent extremism connected to anti-government sentiments, particularly in Michigan. Young’s arrest is part of a troubling trend, as there have been reported assassination attempts against Trump since last year. The ongoing investigations and prosecutions of individuals involved in similar threats underscore the serious nature of such actions in the current political climate.

As the situation develops, officials continue to monitor potential threats, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in safeguarding public figures and maintaining national security.