Virginia Man Charged for Online Death Threats Against Vice President Kamala Harris and Public Officials

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
05/08/2024 23h11

Frank Lucio Carillo appeared in court on Monday, where disturbing details of his threats were revealed.

According to court records, Carillo used the right-wing social media platform Gettr to post numerous threats against Harris, President Joe Biden, FBI Director Christopher Wray, Arizona officials, and others. In response to a subpoena, the FBI discovered a staggering 4,359 posts from Carillo specifically targeting various public figures, among them Vice President Harris.

Court documents state that Carillo's posts contained explicit language and graphic threats against Harris. In one post, Carillo allegedly wrote, "I will cut your eyes out," accompanied by derogatory and offensive language, expressing his desire for Harris to suffer a slow and agonizing death. Additional posts cited in the records included disturbing and detailed plans for causing harm to the vice president.

The threats did not stop with Harris as Carillo's posts also included Islamophobic remarks, urging violence against Muslims. In a 2023 post, Carillo encouraged others to take up arms and "kill all Muslims."

When FBI agents arrived at Carillo's residence in response to his online activities, he immediately acknowledged his involvement, asking if they were there "about the online stuff." He also made a statement to himself, expressing that he would need a lawyer, suggesting awareness of the potential legal consequences.

During the search of Carillo's home, federal agents confiscated two firearms - a pistol that was purchased in 2023 and a rifle bought this year, raising concerns about the potential for carrying out his threats.

Carillo now awaits further legal proceedings as a hearing has been scheduled to determine whether he will be held in custody while awaiting resolution in his case. CNN is currently seeking comment from Carillo's attorney.

The charges against Carillo highlight the increasing prevalence of online threats and the need for vigilant monitoring of social media platforms. As public figures continue to face threats, law enforcement agencies work diligently to identify and apprehend individuals, like Carillo, who seek to harm and intimidate public officials.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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