Shannon Atkins, a 46-year-old from West Palm Beach, has been arrested for allegedly posting violent threats against former President Donald Trump on Facebook. The FBI was tipped off on January 19 after Atkins made disturbing posts that referenced past assassinations and expressed desires for violence against Trump.

Alarming Online Posts Spark Investigation

The posts included statements such as, “Bullets, please. Jesus save America,” and “I hope and pray someone kills him. We haven’t had an assassination in years.” West Palm Beach Police Chief Tony Araujo condemned the posts, calling them politically charged and threatening in nature. “These types of threats are not jokes and must be taken seriously,” he emphasized.

Arrest and Charges

On January 20, Atkins was arrested near his home after officers stopped his 2013 BMW. During the arrest, suspected cocaine was found in his possession, leading to an additional drug charge. Atkins admitted to making the posts but insisted they were intended as jokes. The police have rejected this explanation, asserting the severity of the threats.

Atkins is facing charges for making electronic or written threats to kill, harm, or commit terrorism, a second-degree felony. He also faces a felony charge for drug possession. No weapons were found during the arrest, but authorities are still investigating whether Atkins owns any firearms.

Legal Process and Federal Involvement

Atkins remains in custody without bond as the investigation continues. The Secret Service has been notified of the case, and it will decide whether federal charges are necessary. The suspect, previously associated with a now-closed bakery, has not yet secured legal representation, and a court hearing date has not been set.

Chief Araujo stressed the importance of law enforcement’s response, saying, “Law enforcement will respond decisively to threats against public figures to protect community safety.”