An Anaheim resident has been arrested on a federal criminal complaint for allegedly making death threats against Vice President JD Vance during his visit to Disneyland Resort in July 2025. Marco Antonio Aguayo, 22, is accused of posting threatening messages on Instagram targeting the Vice President while he was at the resort.
Aguayo faces charges related to threats against the President and successors to the Presidency. He is scheduled for an initial court appearance on Tuesday in United States District Court in Santa Ana.
“This case is a horrific reminder of the dangers public officials face from deranged criminals who would do them harm,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful that my friend Vice President Vance and his family are safe, applaud the police work that led to the arrest, and will ensure my prosecutors deliver swift justice.”
First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli stated, “We will not tolerate criminal threats against public officials. We are grateful the Vice President and his family remained safe during their visit. Let this case be a warning to anyone who thinks they can make anonymous online threats. We will find you and bring you to justice.”
According to an affidavit included with the complaint, Aguayo posted several comments on The Walt Disney Company's Instagram account during Vice President Vance's stay at Disneyland Resort on July 12, 2025. One message read: “Pipe bombs have been placed in preparation for J.D. Vance’s arrival.” Another said: “It’s time for us to rise up and you will be a witness to it.” A third comment stated: “Good luck finding all of them on time there will be bloodshed tonight and we will bathe in the blood of corrupt politicians.”
Law enforcement visited Aguayo later that day at his home where he surrendered his phone; investigators found evidence of these messages.
Authorities emphasized that a criminal complaint contains only allegations and that every defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
If convicted, Aguayo could face up to five years in federal prison.
The investigation is being conducted by the United States Secret Service with support from the FBI and Anaheim Police Department. Special Assistant United States Attorney Robert K. Quealy of the Major Frauds Section is prosecuting the case.
