Columbus Man Charged for Threatening ICE Agents on X

21-year-old Juan Mesael Novoa faces up to 15 years in prison for alleged online threats.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 21-year-old Columbus man named Juan Mesael Novoa has been charged with threatening to assault or murder federal law enforcement officers and making threatening interstate communications after allegedly posting messages on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) calling for violence against ICE agents.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the potential dangers of online extremism, as authorities say Novoa had access to multiple firearms that could have been used to carry out his alleged threats.

The details

According to federal investigators, Novoa used the screen names 'Lord of Frenzied Flame' and 'Father2High' to post messages last June and November calling for violence against ICE agents, including 'they should blast every ice agent they find' and 'can't wait to shoot these p***y ice agents and r******d maga maggots.' In December, authorities executed a search warrant at Novoa's home and seized two rifles, two shotguns, a handgun, and ammunition.

  • In June 2025, Novoa allegedly posted threats against ICE agents.
  • In November 2025, Novoa allegedly posted more threats against ICE agents.
  • In December 2025, federal agents executed a search warrant at Novoa's home.

The players

Juan Mesael Novoa

A 21-year-old Columbus resident who has been charged with threatening to assault or murder federal law enforcement officers and making threatening interstate communications.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws, which was allegedly threatened by Novoa.

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What they’re saying

“they should blast every ice agent they find”

— Juan Mesael Novoa (X (formerly Twitter)

“can't wait to shoot these p***y ice agents and r******d maga maggots”

— Juan Mesael Novoa (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Novoa's bail status at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for vigilance against online extremism and threats of violence, especially those targeting law enforcement, as authorities work to balance public safety with civil liberties.