Ohio Man Faces Federal Charges After Threatening ICE Agents and Stockpiling Weapons
COLUMBUS, Ohio — A 21-year-old man from Columbus is facing federal charges after authorities discovered a cache of rifles, ammunition, and tactical gear at his residence following threatening posts directed at federal immigration agents. Justin Mesael Novoa allegedly used social media to threaten to “shoot” and “blast” officers from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), prompting an investigation by federal law enforcement.
According to charging documents released by the Department of Justice (DOJ), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) received information last month about threatening messages posted on the social media platform X. Investigators identified Novoa’s account, @Father2High, which on June 8, 2025, posted a message urging violence against ICE agents, stating they “should blast every ice agent they find.”
The threats escalated with a subsequent post on November 9, 2025, further alarming authorities about Novoa’s intentions. Following these posts, federal agents executed a search warrant at Novoa’s home, where they recovered multiple rifles, body armor, and a significant quantity of ammunition. The presence of tactical gear alongside firearms raised concerns about the seriousness of the threat and the potential for violence.
Novoa was charged with making threatening interstate communications, including threats to assault or murder a federal law enforcement officer. Federal prosecutors emphasized the gravity of threatening agents who enforce immigration laws, underscoring the risks posed to public servants tasked with upholding national security.
This case highlights ongoing challenges faced by federal agencies like ICE and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel, who often encounter hostility and threats while performing their duties. The incident also reflects broader tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States.
Federal authorities continue to monitor social media platforms for potential threats and have reiterated their commitment to protecting officers and agents from violence. The DOJ’s swift action in charging Novoa sends a clear message about the consequences of threatening federal employees.
Novoa remains in custody as the investigation proceeds, and federal prosecutors are preparing for trial. The case serves as a reminder of the complex intersection between online speech, public safety, and law enforcement protection in an increasingly digital world.
For more information on federal law enforcement efforts and protections for officers, visit the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s violent crime division and the Department of Homeland Security’s law enforcement resources.
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