California Man Arrested for Threatening Vice President JD Vance During Disneyland Visit
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Federal authorities arrested Marco Antonio Aguayo, 22, of Anaheim, following allegations that he posted threatening messages targeting Vice President JD Vance during the politician’s visit to Disneyland Resort in July. Aguayo faces charges related to threatening the president and successors to the presidency, according to a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
On July 12, the same day Vice President Vance and his family were staying at the Anaheim resort, Aguayo allegedly posted multiple comments on Disney’s official Instagram account. The posts reportedly referenced pipe bombs, imminent bloodshed, and violent actions directed at “corrupt politicians,” raising serious security concerns. The timing and content of the threats prompted swift action by federal law enforcement.
Authorities took Aguayo into custody on Friday, and he is scheduled to make his initial court appearance Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Santa Ana. The charges stem from violations of federal statutes that prohibit threats against the president and vice president, underscoring the gravity with which such cases are treated.
The investigation was conducted with involvement from the United States Secret Service, which is charged with protecting national leaders and investigating threats against them. The agency’s vigilance in monitoring potential risks to Vice President Vance played a critical role in the prompt arrest.
Threats against public officials have increasingly become a focus for federal agencies, especially with the rise of social media platforms as venues for communication. The Department of Justice has emphasized that threatening the president or vice president is a federal crime with serious penalties, reflecting the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions.
Disneyland Resort, a popular family destination, was thrust into the spotlight amid these events. The incident raised concerns about security measures at public venues when high-profile government officials visit. The resort’s official Instagram account, a platform typically used for promotional content, became the unexpected channel for these alarming threats.
Federal authorities continue to monitor social media for threats to public safety and have urged the public to report any suspicious activity. The Federal Bureau of Investigation maintains dedicated units to investigate threats against government officials and works closely with other agencies to ensure coordinated responses.
Aguayo’s arrest highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing online threats, balancing free speech rights with the imperative to prevent violence. As the case proceeds, it underscores the commitment of federal agencies to protect elected leaders and maintain public safety in an increasingly digital world.
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