New Port Richey Man's Alarming Social Media Threats Target U.S. Officials: A Disturbing Admission

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In a striking legal development from New Port Richey, Florida, a 79-year-old man named Benjamin Rubin is confronting the possibility of a decade behind bars. This follows his admission to crafting and sharing several threatening social media posts aimed at U.S. political leaders. The U.S. Department of Justice confirmed Rubin’s guilty plea on Tuesday, December 23.

The investigation into Rubin’s online activities was initiated in February, after authorities observed his social media posts evolving from expressions of political discontent into alarmingly violent rhetoric. According to investigators, these posts escalated in severity, prompting legal action.

This case underscores the growing concern over the use of social media as a platform for threatening discourse, particularly against public figures. As Rubin awaits sentencing, his situation serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences that can arise from incendiary online behavior.

Investigators said Rubin’s posts became “increasingly violent.”

On Feb. 20, he made a post stating that the head of a federal law enforcement agency “will be assassinated.” The U.S. Department of Justice did not name the official who the threat was made against.

Rubin made another concerning post two days later, in which authorities said he threatened a U.S. cabinet member.

The post said, “I shot my TV when [U.S. cabinet member] appeared in an ad on illegals. Next time I see her in person the shots will be for her.”

The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, FBI and Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.

Rubin was charged with interstate transmission of threats to kill, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.