A federal jury in Arizona convicted a 56-year-old man, Rene Ortiz, on June 8 for threatening to kill President Donald Trump and former Vice President Kamala Harris. Ortiz, who lives in Casa Grande, was found guilty of two felony counts of making threats against successors to the presidency and one felony count of threats against former presidents.

Threats and Arrest

The case stems from two written threats Ortiz delivered to federal courthouses in late 2024. The first note was dropped off in Phoenix on Election Day, Nov. 5, and threatened to execute the newly elected president by firing a semi-automatic rifle. The threat was aimed at both candidates on the ballot. Weeks later, on Nov. 25, Ortiz brought a second note to the federal courthouse in Tucson, threatening to shoot the incoming president at the Jan. 20, 2025, inauguration.

When Secret Service agents later interviewed Ortiz, he confirmed his intent to follow through on the threats. Law enforcement arrested him on Jan. 17, 2025, just three days before the inauguration ceremonies. Ortiz now faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for each of the charges.

Law Enforcement Response

Following the trial, federal officials highlighted the importance of the jury’s decision and the swift action of law enforcement. U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine stated that the American people will not stand for threats of political violence against President Trump or any other elected official.

William R. Mack, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Secret Service office, said his agency takes every threat with the utmost seriousness. U.S. Marshal Van Bayless noted that the nation relies on the rule of law to function and flourish, and anyone who threatens or attempts to intimidate elected or appointed officials will be investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable.

Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.