Ohio Man Faces Federal Charges for Alleged Death Threat Against US Vice President
A federal grand jury has formally indicted a 33-year-old Ohio resident for allegedly making serious threats against the life of United States Vice President JD Vance. The Justice Department announced the charges against Shannon Mathre from Toledo on Friday, February 6, 2026, marking a significant security concern involving the nation's second-highest office.
Details of the Alleged Threat
According to the detailed statement released by the Department of Justice, Mathre stands accused of "making a threat to take the life of, and to inflict bodily harm upon" Vice President Vance. The indictment specifically alleges that Mathre declared, "I'm going to find out where he (the vice president) is going to be and use my M14 automatic gun and kill him." While the exact location where this threatening comment was made remains unspecified in official documents, the seriousness of the allegation prompted immediate federal action.
Arrest and Additional Disturbing Discovery
United States Secret Service agents executed the arrest of Shannon Mathre on Friday following their investigation into the alleged threats. During their thorough examination of the case, authorities made an additional and deeply troubling discovery. Investigators reported finding multiple digital files containing child sexual abuse materials in Mathre's possession, adding another layer of criminal charges to the proceedings.
Recent Security Incidents Involving Vice President Vance
This indictment represents the latest in a series of security incidents concerning Vice President JD Vance. In early January 2026, just weeks before this current case, a separate individual allegedly attempted to forcibly enter Vance's Ohio residence. That incident involved a 26-year-old man who was taken into custody after reportedly hammering on windows while the Vice President and his family were fortunately away from the property.
Legal Proceedings and Current Status
Shannon Mathre made his initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Ohio on the same Friday he was arrested. The defendant remains in federal custody as he awaits a detention hearing scheduled for February 11, 2026. The case continues to develop as prosecutors prepare their arguments regarding the serious nature of the threats against the Vice President.
The combination of alleged threats against a high-ranking government official and the discovery of illicit materials has created a complex legal situation that federal authorities are treating with utmost seriousness, highlighting ongoing security challenges for public figures.
