UPDATE: A Portland man has been charged with making serious threats against law enforcement officers, raising alarms over escalating violence in online rhetoric. John Paul Cupp, aged 45, faces federal charges for allegedly threatening to kill officers and sexually assault their families, both in public and on social media.
According to the FBI, Cupp confronted officers outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in South Portland on October 14, 2025, where he unleashed a barrage of threats. Court documents reveal that Cupp shouted, “I will kill law enforcement officers and harm their families,” alarming both the gathered crowd and authorities.
The threats did not cease after the initial encounter. On November 3, 2025, Cupp posted a video online reiterating his violent claims against federal agents and their spouses. Just ten days later, he shared additional posts with similar threatening rhetoric, marking him as a significant online extremist presence.
The FBI describes Cupp as “a prolific producer of online content,” frequently engaging in aggressive and violent speech that includes calls for war against the United States and antisemitic threats. This alarming behavior has drawn the attention of federal authorities, who are now taking decisive action.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “If you threaten to kill law enforcement officers or harm their families, you will face the full weight of the federal government.” He reiterated the agency’s commitment to using all available resources to identify and remove violent extremists from communities.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford echoed this sentiment, asserting that threats against law enforcement will not be tolerated. “We will continue to prosecute criminal threats of violence to the fullest extent of the law,” he warned, highlighting the importance of safeguarding those who protect the community.
Acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Matt Torres stressed the detrimental impact of such threats on public safety. “Attempts to intimidate those sworn to protect the American people degrade efforts to keep all of us safe,” he stated.
Cupp is currently in federal custody as the case unfolds. Authorities have yet to announce a court date for his next appearance. This case underscores the urgent need for vigilance against rising extremist threats in society.
As this story develops, the community remains on high alert, recognizing the potential dangers posed by violent rhetoric and extremism. Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to address this critical issue.
