Nick Guadalupe Cruz-Lopez, a 20-year-old from Plant City, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with making a threat to kill the President of the United States, according to an April 3 announcement by United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison if Cruz-Lopez is convicted. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to address threats against public officials.
According to the complaint, on April 2, Cruz-Lopez posted a photo on his Instagram account that stated, “MAGA Otw to kill trump” and showed him in a vehicle holding an AR-15 style rifle. Federal agents located and arrested Cruz-Lopez later that day.
Authorities remind the public that a criminal complaint is only a formal charge alleging that a defendant has violated federal criminal law. "Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty," Kehoe said.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts will prosecute the case.
