Threats to Kill

⏱ 2 min read

Benjamin Rubin, a 79-year-old man from New Port Richey, Florida, has been sentenced to prison for threatening to kill multiple federal officials. In February 2025, Rubin began posting violent messages on social media, targeting United States officials and political figures. His frustrations escalated, and he started making explicit threats, including assassinating the head of a federal law enforcement agency and shooting a U.S. Cabinet Member.

Rubin’s online rants caught the attention of law enforcement, and an investigation was launched. On February 20, 2025, he posted a threat to assassinate the head of a federal law enforcement agency. Two days later, he made another threat, stating that he would shoot a U.S. Cabinet Member if he saw her in person.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Rubin pleaded guilty on December 22, 2025, and was sentenced to one year in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Charlene Honeywell.

Rubin’s actions demonstrate the seriousness of making threats against federal officials, and the consequences of such actions. The investigation and prosecution of this case highlight the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies in keeping officials and the public safe.