Federal authorities arrest Ohio man for threatening ICE agents, as attacks on officers surge and immigration enforcement grows.

Ohio Man Arrested for Terror Threats Against ICE Agents

Federal officials have arrested Anthony Kelly of Cincinnati, Ohio, for allegedly making terroristic threats against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and a federal official, intensifying the spotlight on a nationwide surge in violence targeting immigration authorities. Kelly faces federal charges after threatening to kidnap, assault, and murder government officers, including through explicit posts on social media platforms. During a search of his home, authorities found a gun and ammunition.

Kelly’s arrest follows alarming threats made online, including statements like, “You come here for me, you’re getting shot. … I’m shooting for the kill.” DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, “These threats will not be tolerated. You will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE have emphasized zero tolerance for violence or doxxing of agents, noting that attacks on ICE personnel have risen 830% since January.

Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Under Scrutiny

The growing danger to ICE officers is underscored by another recent case in Illinois, where ICE agents arrested a Mexican national accused of decapitating a missing woman after he was released by a local judge despite the severity of the allegations. Jose Luis Mendoza-Gonzalez, 52, was charged with concealing a corpse and obstruction of justice. The gruesome nature of the crime and the release of the suspect before ICE apprehension has sparked public outrage and calls for stricter immigration law enforcement.

Republican officials and DHS representatives expressed deep concern over the state’s legal framework, citing the risk posed by releasing dangerous suspects. “It is absolutely repulsive this monster walked free on Illinois’ streets after allegedly committing such a heinous crime,” a DHS spokesperson stated. Lawmakers in Illinois have questioned the logic of not detaining individuals accused of serious crimes and called for a review of state and federal cooperation in such cases.

ICE Responds to Political Rhetoric and Officer Safety

The recent spike in violence has been attributed in part to heated political rhetoric. Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons blamed “elected officials” for contributing to public hostility toward ICE, stating, “The sharp increase in the rhetoric…is what’s really increasing these attacks on officers.” Lyons reported a record increase in assaults against officers, coinciding with higher visibility as President Donald Trump’s administration intensifies immigration enforcement operations nationwide.

ICE officers, speaking publicly, described the emotional toll and daily risks they face. “It has been very sad to see how we’re villainized,” said officer Kristian Moreno, highlighting how officers are merely enforcing the law as written. Edgardo Centeno, another officer, spoke of his commitment to defend the Constitution and lamented the deep divisions in the country, even after serving in combat abroad.

As federal authorities continue to ramp up enforcement and address rising violence, both DHS and ICE maintain that threats and attacks will be prosecuted vigorously. Officials urge the public and policymakers to support law enforcement’s mission, stressing the dangers faced by those on the front lines of immigration operations. The ongoing debate over immigration policy, officer safety, and community trust remains central as the administration pursues its priorities amid intensifying scrutiny and national concern.