New Jersey Twins Arrested for DHS Death Threats: Violent Posts Target ICE Officials

Twin brothers from New Jersey have been arrested for making violent threats against federal immigration officials. Ricardo and Emilio Roman-Flores were taken into custody on December 9th. The arrest followed graphic online posts targeting a senior Department of Homeland Security official.

The threats come amid a national surge in violent rhetoric. Federal authorities treated the public calls for violence with urgency.

Charges Detail Explicit Calls to “Shoot ICE on Sight”

The brothers are US citizens from Absecon. Their arrest involved a local SWAT team and federal agents. According to a DHS press release, their social media posts were explicit.

One message urged followers to use the Second Amendment. It stated, “Shoot ICE on sight.” Another post repeated the same violent call to action. Authorities say the threats specifically named Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin.

Additional posts called for the DHS spokesperson to be tortured and killed. McLaughlin has publicly condemned such threats as despicable, according to Fox News.

The charges against the twins are serious. Emilio Roman-Flores faces counts including unlawful possession of an assault weapon and terroristic threats. Ricardo Antonio Roman-Flores is charged with conspiracy to make terroristic threats. Both men remain in police custody.

Federal Officials Cite Dramatic Rise in Violent Rhetoric

The case highlights a worrying trend for federal agencies. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has reported a massive increase in threats. Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons warned of an “8,000% increase in death threats” against personnel.

This environment makes investigations into online threats a top priority. The Roman-Flores case is a direct response to that escalating danger. It signals a firm stance against inciting violence toward public servants.

The impact is felt across law enforcement. It forces agencies to dedicate more resources to protective details and threat assessments. For the public, it underscores the real-world consequences of online speech.

This arrest demonstrates the legal peril of threatening federal officials. The case against the New Jersey twins connects online rhetoric to immediate law enforcement action. It serves as a stark warning during a period of heightened political tension.

Info at your fingertips

Who are Ricardo and Emilio Roman-Flores?

They are twin brothers and U.S. citizens from Absecon, New Jersey. Federal authorities arrested them for allegedly posting violent threats online against Department of Homeland Security officials.

What exactly did they post online?

Their posts included explicit calls to “shoot ICE on sight.” They also singled out DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin with graphic threats of torture and death, according to the DHS release.

What charges do the twins face?

Emilio faces multiple charges, including unlawful weapon possession and terroristic threats. Ricardo is charged with conspiracy to make terroristic threats. Both are currently in custody.

Why is this case significant?

It reflects a major surge in violent threats against immigration officers. ICE reports an 8,000% increase in death threats, making this a high-priority federal case.

How were the brothers caught?

A joint operation between the Absecon Police Department SWAT team and DHS executed a search and arrest warrant. This followed an investigation into their public social media activity.