Ex-Coast Guard officer Peter Stinson arrested for alleged threats to kill President Trump, FBI reports.

Retired Coast Guard Lieutenant Accused of Plotting Violence

Federal authorities have arrested a former U.S. Coast Guard lieutenant, Peter Stinson, on charges of threatening to assassinate President Donald Trump. Court documents reveal that Stinson, who served in the Coast Guard from 1988 to 2021 and later instructed for FEMA, is accused of making a series of alarming online threats.

An FBI task force officer’s affidavit, filed Friday, describes multiple graphic social media posts allegedly made by Stinson targeting President Trump. Among the threats, Stinson reportedly referenced using firearms, poison, and knives, indicating detailed contemplation of violent acts. On May 9, Stinson posted that Trump needed to be “Luigied”—an apparent reference to Luigi Mangione, who was accused of killing United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson last year.

Investigators noted that Stinson, a Virginia resident, also posted about his doubts regarding his ability to successfully carry out an assassination but added unsettling remarks suggesting he might not be truthful about his intentions. Authorities interpreted these comments as indications that the threat level should be taken seriously.

Online Activity Raises Red Flags

Stinson is alleged to have referenced the number 8647 in several posts, which officials say likely alludes to an Instagram post by former FBI Director James Comey. That post had previously sparked security investigations due to its interpretation as a threat to President Trump. According to the FBI affidavit, Stinson repeated similar references thirteen additional times on the Bluesky social platform.

The documents further allege that Stinson self-identified as a member of ANTIFA. On February 2, he reportedly posted on X, “Sure. This is war. Sides will be drawn. Antifa always wins in the end. Violence is inherently necessary.” In another post on June 11, Stinson allegedly stated, “When he dies, the party is going to be yuge,” referencing the president in graphic terms.

In addition to his military background, Stinson served as a sharpshooter and was a FEMA instructor. His online threats, combined with his specialized training, prompted heightened concern among federal agencies responsible for presidential security.

Federal Charges and Next Steps

Stinson has been charged with making threats to kill the president and is scheduled for an initial federal court appearance on Wednesday. The FBI and other agencies have intensified efforts to investigate and respond to threats against public officials, citing the increasing prevalence of such incidents on social media platforms.

Legal experts note that federal law imposes severe penalties for making credible threats against the president, regardless of whether an attack is actually attempted. As the case moves forward, authorities are likely to examine Stinson’s communications, affiliations, and access to weapons to assess the potential risk posed to President Trump and others.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the intersection of extremist rhetoric, online platforms, and threats to elected leaders. Officials emphasize the need for vigilance and swift legal action to deter future incidents and safeguard public figures from harm.