Full Breakdown
Fort Worth Man Charged with Terroristic Threats Against Texas Lawmaker James Talarico
9/10/2026, 7:38:14 AM
Incident Overview
Billy James McFatridge, a resident of Fort Worth, Texas, was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor for making terroristic threats toward Texas State Representative James Talarico, who is also a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate. The threats were transmitted via email and Instagram in early August, including graphic statements about slitting Talarico’s throat and castrating him.
Investigation Findings
Texas Department of Public Safety investigators linked the threatening messages to McFatridge through forensic analysis of the Gmail and Instagram accounts. When questioned at his home, McFatridge admitted ownership of the accounts and acknowledged possessing multiple firearms, though he claimed his intent was only to intimidate Talarico rather than cause physical harm. The affidavit also notes McFatridge’s prior history of sending threatening messages to a former supervisor in 2023 and a 2018 aggravated-assault arrest, suggesting a pattern of violent behavior.
Legal Proceedings
Following the investigation, McFatridge was taken into custody in late August and charged with making a terroristic threat toward a public servant. As part of his bond conditions, he will be fitted with a GPS monitor, prohibited from attending any Talarico campaign events, and barred from entering government buildings. The charge carries a potential penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine, reflecting the seriousness with which Texas law treats threats against elected officials.
Security Response
Representative Talarico and his staff reported feeling “fear of serious injury” after receiving the messages. In response, campaign security was heightened for upcoming stops, including a scheduled appearance in Fort Worth. Additional protective measures are being coordinated for future events throughout the Senate primary campaign.
