Ohio Man Arrested for Threatening Vice President JD Vance Found with Child Abuse Materials
TOLEDO, Ohio — Federal authorities arrested Shannon Mathre, 33, on Friday after he allegedly threatened to kill Vice President JD Vance during the vice president’s visit to Northwest Ohio in January. The Department of Justice revealed that, in addition to the threat, Mathre was found in possession of child sexual abuse materials, compounding the severity of the charges against him.
According to the Department of Justice, Mathre reportedly said, “I am going to find out where he (the vice president) is going to be and use my M14 automatic gun and kill him.” While the DOJ did not specify the exact time or location of the threat, Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the seriousness of the case in a public statement, warning that individuals cannot hide behind anonymity when making such dangerous threats. Bondi said, “You can hide behind a screen, but you cannot hide from this Department of Justice.”
The U.S. Secret Service, responsible for protecting the vice president, conducted the arrest after an investigation into the threat. The agency’s swift action underscores the heightened security measures taken to protect government officials from potential harm. The Secret Service has been closely monitoring threats against Vice President Vance, who has been a prominent figure since taking office.
Authorities also uncovered that Mathre possessed child sexual abuse materials at the time of his arrest, a federal crime that carries severe penalties. The Federal Bureau of Investigation often partners with the DOJ and other agencies to investigate and prosecute cases involving such illegal content. This additional charge highlights the multifaceted criminal behavior involved in this case.
Vice President JD Vance, who has been active in public engagements across the country, delivered remarks at Royalston Square in Minneapolis on January 22, 2026. The threat against him came amid a period of increased political tensions nationwide, where officials at all levels have faced heightened security concerns.
Attorney General Bondi assured the public that the DOJ is committed to vigorously prosecuting threats against public officials. “Our attorneys are vigorously prosecuting this disgusting threat against Vice President Vance,” she said, reinforcing the message that threats of violence will not be tolerated.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in safeguarding elected officials while addressing other serious crimes uncovered during investigations. The collaboration between the DOJ, Secret Service, and FBI remains critical in maintaining national security and public safety.
As the legal process moves forward, authorities continue to monitor for any further threats and ensure the safety of Vice President Vance and other government officials amid a complex and often volatile political climate.
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