Andrew J. O’Keefe, Threatening President, Massachusetts 2015

BOSTON – In a shocking display of disregard for the law, Andrew J. O’Keefe, a 28-year-old Mansfield man, was charged with making online threats to the President of the United States.

According to court documents, on May 13, 2015, O’Keefe posted a threat on an FBI website stating that he planned on killing President Barack Obama. This heinous act demonstrates a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of the President and the American people.

Law enforcement officers attempted to interview O’Keefe regarding the posting on May 15, 2015, but he refused to speak with them outside his residence. A search warrant executed on O’Keefe’s residence and vehicle recovered over 100 weapons, including swords, double-edged knives, hatchets, spears, an air gun, and two laptop computers.

The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz, Lisa A. Quinn, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, and Mansfield Police Chief Ronald A. Sellon made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Ortiz’s Major Crime Unit.

O’Keefe is scheduled to appear before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Donald L. Cabell at 11:15 a.m. today. The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.

The people of Massachusetts demand justice for the President and the American people. We will continue to follow this case and bring you updates as more information becomes available.

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