Man Arrested for Threatening VP Vance Also Had Child Abuse Materials

Federal agents found multiple digital files of child sexual abuse materials in the suspect's possession.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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A 33-year-old Ohio man named Shannon Mathre was arrested for allegedly threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance during the VP's visit to Northwest Ohio in January. While investigating the threat, federal agents also found that Mathre was in possession of multiple digital files of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Mathre has now been indicted on charges related to both the threat against Vance and the CSAM.

Why it matters

This case highlights the disturbing intersection of violent threats against public officials and the possession of illegal and exploitative materials involving the sexual abuse of children. It underscores the need for vigilance in protecting both elected leaders and vulnerable members of society.

The details

According to the Justice Department, Mathre is accused of saying, "I am going to find out where he (the vice president) is going to be and use my M14 automatic gun and kill him." While investigating this threat, federal agents discovered the CSAM in Mathre's possession. Mathre has now been charged with both making the threat against Vance and engaging in the receipt and distribution of CSAM.

  • In January 2026, Mathre allegedly threatened to kill Vice President Vance during the VP's visit to Northwest Ohio.
  • From December 31, 2025 to January 21, 2026, Mathre is accused of engaging in the receipt and distribution of CSAM.

The players

Shannon Mathre

A 33-year-old man from Toledo, Ohio who was arrested for allegedly threatening to kill Vice President JD Vance and was found to be in possession of child sexual abuse materials.

JD Vance

The current Vice President of the United States, who was allegedly threatened by Mathre.

Pam Bondi

The Attorney General who stated that the Department of Justice is "vigorously prosecuting this disgusting threat against Vice President Vance."

Todd Blanche

The Deputy Attorney General who commented on the discovery of child sexual abuse materials in Mathre's possession while arresting him for the threat against Vance.

David Toepfer

The U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio who said "violent threats" against officials "will not be tolerated" and that those who make them "will face swift justice and prosecution."

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What they’re saying

“You can hide behind a screen, but you cannot hide from this Department of Justice.”

— Pam Bondi, Attorney General

“While arresting this man for allegedly threatening to murder the Vice President of the United States, a serious crime in and of itself, federal law enforcement discovered that he was also in possession of child sexual abuse materials.”

— Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General

“Violent threats such as the one made against Vice President Vance will not be tolerated. Those who make these threats will face swift justice and prosecution.”

— David Toepfer, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio

What’s next

Mathre's detention hearing is scheduled for February 11, 2026, where a judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for vigilance in protecting both public officials and vulnerable members of society, as it reveals the disturbing intersection of violent threats and the possession of illegal materials involving the sexual exploitation of children.