BREAKING: A 23-year-old man in Dallas has been arrested for allegedly soliciting the murder of ICE agents through a threatening TikTok post. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas confirmed the apprehension of Eduardo Aguilar earlier today, highlighting the serious nature of his online communication.
Court documents reveal that Aguilar’s post, made on October 9, included an alarming message that read: “I need 10 dudes in Dallas with determination (guts) who aren’t afraid to [two skull emojis].” The emojis are widely interpreted as a call to violence, followed by an offer of $10,000 for each ICE agent targeted. This disturbing solicitation came to the attention of authorities after a concerned citizen reported it, prompting a swift response from federal officers.
Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson condemned the threats, stating,
“Threats against our law enforcement officers are completely unacceptable. Any threats or bounties placed on agents will prompt thorough investigation and prosecution to the fullest extent.”
This strong stance underscores the seriousness of the threats made against those in law enforcement.
Following his arrest, Aguilar made his initial court appearance yesterday, where a United States Magistrate Judge ordered his detention in federal custody. If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison. It is important to note that the allegations in the criminal complaint are just that—allegations. Aguilar is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Dallas Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Homeland Security Investigations, among others. This collaborative effort highlights the commitment of law enforcement to address threats against their members urgently.
As developments unfold, the community and law enforcement officials remain vigilant. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by those protecting the public and the gravity of online threats in today’s digital age. Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to develop.