A man from Troy, Illinois has been charged in federal court for allegedly threatening to kill Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis. Jeffrey A. Mullinix, 67, faces one count of interstate communication with a threat to injure.
According to the federal complaint, Mullinix is accused of posting a comment on YouTube on January 21 stating he was traveling to Minneapolis with weapons, had prior military experience, and intended to harm at least 50 law enforcement agents. The FBI received an anonymous tip about the comment.
U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft stated: “Violence and threats against law enforcement officers can never be tolerated, and those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. At the same time, I call on everyone to lower the temperature and seek calm. Our country faces real challenges, but threats and violence only make things worse for our communities, our officers, and the rule of law.”
Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Springfield Field Office Karen Marinos said: "Threats of violence against law enforcement are taken seriously. The statements made by Mr. Mullinix were not off handed, but were direct and specific. FBI Springfield thanks our law enforcement partners for the assistance they provided in this matter and for treating it with the seriousness it deserved."
Law enforcement interviewed Mullinix at his home on January 22 and seized two rifles.
The charges are allegations at this stage; Mullinix is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
The investigation is being led by the FBI Springfield Field Office.
