Federal authorities have arrested Anthony Kelly, a Cincinnati man accused of making violent threats against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Kelly, 39, allegedly threatened to kill officials, using a disturbing combination of the terms “Gestapo” and “pedophiles,” which he referred to as “Gestapedos” in his online posts.
Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), confirmed the arrest in a post on X (formerly Twitter) Saturday. McLaughlin detailed the charges against Kelly, which include threats of assault, kidnapping, and murder of a U.S. official.
Following Kelly’s arrest, DHS agents conducted a search of his residence, where they discovered a handgun and ammunition, McLaughlin stated. The department also shared screenshots of Kelly’s posts on the social media platform BlueSky, where he allegedly made the threats.
In one post, Kelly responded to a Fox News interview with Border Czar Tom Homan, in which Homan discussed the ability of federal immigration agents to detain individuals based on their physical appearance. Kelly reportedly wrote, “Thanks for giving We The People permission to shoot your #Gestapedos #TomHoman.”
Kelly also targeted Noem in another post, which referenced her proposal to open more facilities to house undocumented immigrants, including the controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” facility in Florida. “The shotgun is being bought later on this week #KristiNoem … how many of your pathetic #Gestapedos want the smoke? You’re also invited b—,” Kelly allegedly wrote.
In a further disturbing post, Kelly reportedly responded to a message about Homeland Security obtaining Medicaid enrollee data, writing, “A message to the #Gestapedos. You come for me, you’re getting shot. And I’m not looking to disable your pedo asses.
I’m shooting for the kill. I don’t give a f— about your names, who you are, or anything else. You will be shot. You will be killed. End of story.” McLaughlin condemned Kelly’s threats, stating, “These types of threats will not be tolerated.” She added, “You will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Kelly’s arrest serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by online rhetoric and threats, particularly when directed at public officials. Federal authorities have made it clear that they will continue to pursue individuals who make violent threats against government personnel, ensuring accountability and security for those in public service.