Federal Charges for Two Men Over Threats to ICE Officer on Social Media

Indictment Details Threats Against ICE Officer and Wife

A federal grand jury in Georgia has charged two men, Frank Andrew Waszut, 41, of Knoxville, Tennessee, and Anthony Patrick Noto, 63, of Ronkonkoma, New York, with making threats against a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation officer and his wife. The Department of Justice announced the indictment this week, revealing that the threats were transmitted via social media, specifically Instagram. This case highlights the serious nature of online harassment targeting federal agents who serve to uphold immigration laws.

According to court documents, Waszut posted a video on Instagram featuring photographs of the ICE officer, accompanied by threatening captions. The post allegedly included statements like, 'This is him unmasked … So, go ahead and make him famous … catch him when he's alone.' Additionally, it called for others to 'give him the cell block one treatment,' implying physical violence if the officer was encountered in public. Noto is accused of commenting on a photo of the officer's wife with a menacing remark about testing weapon sights, further escalating the threat level.

Official Response and Public Safety Concerns

U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg for the Northern District of Georgia condemned the actions of the accused, emphasizing the importance of protecting federal agents from harassment. He stated, 'Federal agents deserve to perform their duties free of harassment from keyboard warriors and other agitators.' His words underscore a commitment to ensuring that those who serve in law enforcement roles, particularly within agencies like ICE, can do so without fear of personal retribution or violence incited through online platforms.

The Department of Homeland Security and ICE have not issued specific comments on this case, but the broader context of such threats points to ongoing challenges faced by federal officers. These incidents of targeted online threats can undermine the ability of agents to carry out their critical duties in maintaining public safety and enforcing immigration policies. The swift response from federal prosecutors sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

Legal Implications and Broader Impact

The charges against Waszut and Noto include knowingly transmitting threats to injure a federal agent and his spouse, a serious offense under federal law. While specific details about potential penalties or court dates remain undisclosed in public statements, the indictment itself reflects a strong stance against online intimidation. This case may set a precedent for how similar threats are handled in the future, particularly as social media continues to be a platform for both communication and potential harm.

For communities across the nation, this situation serves as a reminder of the personal risks faced by those in federal service. It also highlights the need for robust legal mechanisms to address cyber threats, ensuring that individuals who attempt to incite violence or fear through digital means are held accountable. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, there remains a firm commitment to supporting law enforcement and protecting those who dedicate their lives to safeguarding American citizens.