A Florida man, Shannon Depararro Atkins, was arrested on Friday after allegedly making violent threats against President Donald Trump via Facebook. The 46-year-old West Palm Beach resident’s online posts included one claiming, “America needs one good bullet to be saved.” His arrest followed an FBI tip-off that prompted an investigation beginning earlier this week.
Authorities apprehended Atkins during a traffic stop, where they also reportedly found cocaine in his possession. West Palm Beach Police Chief Tony Araujo confirmed that Atkins admitted to making the posts but claimed they were jokes. However, Chief Araujo stressed that such statements are taken seriously in today’s political climate.
Atkins faces multiple charges, including a second-degree felony for written or electronic threats to kill or cause harm, and drug possession. The Secret Service is currently evaluating whether federal charges will be brought against him.
Trump’s team has highlighted an uptick in threats since his return to office, with nearly a dozen violent incidents reported. During his reelection campaign, there were also two alleged attempts on Trump’s life.
