A digital threat from Illinois leads to a high-stakes arrest and two seized rifles.
Federal authorities have arrested a 67-year-old Illinois man after he allegedly threatened to travel to Minneapolis to carry out a mass shooting of federal immigration agents.
Jeffrey A. Mullinix, a Navy veteran residing in Troy, faces federal charges of interstate communication of a threat to injure. According to a criminal complaint, Mullinix posted a chilling call to arms on a YouTube news report regarding the deployment of troops to Minnesota for “Operation Metro Surge.”
“Arm yourselves,” Mullinix allegedly wrote. “I will be on my way to Minneapolis pack full of my weapons… I can kill dozens of them.”
FBI agents traced the comments to Mullinix’s residence, where he reportedly admitted to his plan, citing anger over the ongoing immigration crackdown. Officers seized two rifles from his home. U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft praised the swift action, stating that “violence and threats against law enforcement officers can never be tolerated.” Mullinix is currently being held in the Madison County jail pending a court appearance on Feb. 18.
