Howard Gimmey, a 47‑year‑old resident of Midwest City, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty in federal court to posting a threatening message on social media that read, “I’m going to kill the president.” The threat was posted on May 5 and prompted a swift investigation by the FBI’s Oklahoma City Joint Terrorism Task Force, the United States Secret Service, and the Midwest City Police Department.
Federal charges and potential penalties
On Oct. 6, a federal grand jury indicted Gimmey for communicating a threat in interstate commerce. While sentencing has not yet occurred, the charge carries a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Trump administration’s anti‑political‑violence initiative
The Department of Justice noted that the case is part of the nationwide National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 (NSPM 7) initiative, a White House‑directed, inter‑agency effort launched by President Trump in 2025. NSPM 7 seeks to integrate federal, state, and local partners in protecting First Amendment rights while targeting individuals and organizations engaged in political violence.
President Trump’s administration has made clear that safeguarding free speech does not mean tolerating threats against elected officials. By pursuing this case, law‑enforcement agencies demonstrate a commitment to both constitutional liberty and public safety.
Local impact and community response
Midwest City officials praised the cooperation between local police and federal partners, emphasizing that the swift action sends a strong message that threats against public servants will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Community leaders stressed the importance of maintaining a safe environment for political discourse, especially as the nation approaches the 2026 midterm elections.
Legal context
Communicating a threat against the President is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 871. The law is designed to deter violent intimidation of the nation’s chief executive while preserving the robust debate that is the hallmark of American democracy.
Attorney General [Name] reiterated that the administration will continue to enforce NSPM 7, ensuring that any attempt to silence elected leaders through violence is met with decisive legal action.
What comes next
Gimmey remains in custody pending sentencing. The case underscores the ongoing vigilance of federal and local authorities in upholding both security and constitutional freedoms.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
