Full Breakdown
New York Man Charged with Terroristic Threats Against President Donald Trump
6/24/2026, 7:32:03 AM
Alleged Threats and Federal Charge
Joshua Alexander, 43, of Oswego, New York, was arrested on June 6 and charged in the Northern District of New York with making a terroristic threat against President Donald J. Trump and his family. Prosecutors say Alexander posted multiple X messages, including “I’m going to rent a car and I’m coming to find you President Trump,” and claimed to have sent over 100 emails to the White House that threatened murder and sexual assault. The arrest prompted a United States Secret Service response.
Background and Legal Context
A terroristic threat under federal law requires a communication that creates a reasonable expectation of death or serious injury. The complaint alleges Alexander’s online posts and emails satisfy this element, leading to the federal charge. The Secret Service coordinated with Oswego authorities after the threat was reported, reflecting the federal agency’s mandate to protect the president.
Timeline
- June 6 – Alexander posts the threat on X and is arrested near his Oswego home.
- June 23 – The same X post remains publicly visible.
- Late June – Defense attorney David Smallwood announces a motion to dismiss the charge.
Official Statements and Responses
The Oswego Police Department stated Alexander’s communications “did cause a reasonable expectation of fear for the president’s life,” justifying Secret Service involvement. Federal prosecutors described the conduct as a clear violation of the terroristic-threat statute. The complaint also notes that Alexander interrupted agents during the interview, reiterating his intent to kill the president. Defense counsel David Smallwood argues the statements do not meet the statutory threshold.
Criticism and Opposition
Smallwood contends that, while hostile, Alexander’s speech lacks the specific intent required for a terroristic-threat conviction and plans to seek dismissal. Smallwood plans to file a motion to dismiss based on the argument that the statements lack the requisite intent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm going to rent a car and I'm coming to find you President Trump,” — Joshua Alexander, X post, June 6
- “Lol I'm going to cut off the president's head,” — Joshua Alexander, X post
- “There's no difference between posting something online and shouting it on a street corner," he reportedly said.” — David Smallwood, Senior Assistant Public Defender
- “I will murder you Donald Trump.” — Joshua Alexander, X post
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
The police affidavit asserts a reasonable fear of the president’s life, while the defense maintains the statutory requirement for a terroristic threat is unmet; the sources do not provide independent verification of the alleged 100-plus emails.
What’s Next
David Smallwood intends to file a motion to dismiss; the court’s ruling will determine whether the case proceeds to trial.
