Nick Guadalupe Cruz-Lopez, a 20-year-old resident of 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 case centers on public safety concerns regarding threats made against high-profile government officials. Such threats are taken seriously by federal authorities and can result in significant legal consequences.
According to the complaint, Cruz-Lopez posted a photo on his Instagram account on April 2 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.
Kehoe said that if convicted, Cruz-Lopez faces up to five years in federal prison. The United States Secret Service is leading the investigation into this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts will prosecute the case.
Officials emphasize that a criminal complaint is merely a formal charge alleging violation of federal law. “Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty,” Kehoe said.
