In a concerning development in Columbus, Ohio, a local man is facing federal charges after allegedly using social media to threaten federal immigration agents with violence. The individual, identified as 21-year-old Justin Mesael Novoa, reportedly posted alarming threats about “shooting” and “blasting” agents, according to federal prosecutors.

The Department of Justice announced on Thursday that Novoa is being charged with making threatening interstate communications and threatening to assault or murder a federal law enforcement officer. These serious charges highlight the gravity of his online postings.

Last month, the Department of Homeland Security’s Investigations unit was alerted to the threats aimed at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel. Investigators discovered that on June 8, 2025, Novoa, using the handle @Father2High, allegedly posted a message encouraging violence against ICE agents.

When authorities searched Novoa’s home, they found rifles, ammunition, and body armor, further compounding the concerns raised by his online threats. This discovery underscores the potential risk posed by such statements, even when made in the digital realm.

The case continues to unfold as the legal system addresses the serious implications of making threats against federal agents. These actions emphasize the importance of maintaining security and safety for law enforcement officers, especially in a digital age where threats can manifest quickly and without warning.

Prosecutors say the same account later posted another message on Nov. 9, 2025, stating: “can’t wait to shoot these p***y ice agents and r******d maga maggots.”

Federal agents executed a search warrant at Novoa’s residence in December 2025, according to court filings.

During the search, authorities seized two rifles, two shotguns and one handgun, along with ammunition, prosecutors said. Agents also recovered two helmets and body armor, according to the DOJ.

DOJ records show the firearms purported to have been recovered by law enforcement agents from Novoa’s residence. (Department of Justice)

A pro-Palestinian flag was also pictured hanging on the wall of Novoa’s residence near the firearms and body armor.

Threatening to kill a federal officer carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison, while making threatening interstate communications may result in up to five years in prison, prosecutors said.

DOJ photos show items allegedly recovered from Novoa’s residence, including a pro-Palestinian flag. (Department of Justice)

The case was announced by Dominick S. Gerace II, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Jared Murphey, acting special agent in charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations Detroit. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Prichard, according to the DOJ.

A criminal complaint contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. The DOJ did not indicate whether additional charges are expected and no injuries were reported in connection with the case.