DHS Arrests Texas Man for Threats Against ICE Agents and Secretary Kristi Noem Amid Rising Anti-ICE Rhetoric
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has arrested a Texas man for making terrorist threats against federal law enforcement officers, including ICE agents and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. The arrest comes at a time of heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, amplified by inflammatory rhetoric spreading on social media.
Arrest in McKinney: Robert King Taken Into Custody
Robert King, a U.S. citizen, was arrested in McKinney, Texas, after allegedly posting violent threats online, vowing to “open fire” on any ICE agents seen in his neighborhood. DHS officials confirmed the arrest on Wednesday, calling King’s social media posts “alarming” and a credible threat to federal agents.
“King’s alarming social media posts included intentions to ‘open fire’ if agents are seen in his neighborhood,” DHS said in a public statement.
The agency shared details of the arrest via its Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas account, confirming that King was taken into custody without incident and is now facing federal charges related to terrorism and threats against law enforcement personnel.
Not an Isolated Incident: Viral TikTok Sparks National Outrage
King’s arrest comes just days after a viral TikTok video surfaced, in which a man instructed illegal immigrants to “shoot ICE agents on sight” if approached for deportation. The TikToker claimed that agents often operate in unmarked vehicles and without proper identification, and falsely asserted that illegal immigrants would have “the best self-defense case” if they used deadly force.
“If ICE agents are trying to take you or a loved one, shoot them on sight,” the man said in the video.
“You might as well shoot them and have your day in court.”
The video was widely condemned across social media and quickly caught the attention of federal officials, including DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.
Secretary Noem Responds: “We Will Find You”
Secretary Noem issued a strong response to the video, warning that any threats or acts of violence against federal officers will be prosecuted.
“If you threaten or attempt to harm a law enforcement officer, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law,” she posted on X.
Noem has made border security and federal law enforcement protection top priorities since assuming her post as DHS Secretary under President Trump’s second administration.
Broader Implications and Law Enforcement Concerns
Federal agencies are increasingly on alert as anti-ICE and anti-DHS sentiment spreads across social platforms. Law enforcement leaders warn that rhetoric like that seen on TikTok, whether satire or serious, can inspire individuals to act violently.
HSI and the FBI are reportedly monitoring multiple online channels for further threats. While Robert King has been detained, investigations into other potential incitements—including the viral TikToker—are underway.
“Calls to violence against any law enforcement official, regardless of political disagreement, are unacceptable and dangerous,” one federal law enforcement official told media outlets.
Legal Consequences Ahead
If convicted, King could face significant federal prison time under statutes related to domestic terrorism, threats against federal officers, and incitement to violence. Federal prosecutors are also considering whether King’s threats meet the threshold for interstate communication of threats, a felony charge that carries serious penalties.
The viral TikTok case remains under review, and DHS has not confirmed whether that individual has been identified or charged. However, public pressure continues to mount for swift action against those inciting violence online.
As Secretary Noem made clear: threats against federal law enforcement will not be ignored—and will be met with the full force of the law.
