Troy man accused of threatening to kill ICE agents in Minneapolis

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. - A Troy man is facing a federal charge for threatening to kill federal agents working for Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis.

A federal complaint charged Jeffrey A. Mullinix, 67, with one count of interstate communication with a threat to injure.

"Violence and threats against law enforcement officers can never be tolerated, and those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. "At the same time, I call on everyone to lower the temperature and seek calm. Our country faces real challenges, but threats and violence only make things worse for our communities, our officers, and the rule of law."

According to the complaint, Mullinix is accused of posting a threatening comment on a YouTube video on Jan. 21. In the comment, Mullinix allegedly stated he was on his way to Minneapolis with weapons, had prior military experience and would knock at least 50 of the law enforcement agents out. An anonymous tipster notified the FBI of Mullinix's comment.

"Threats of violence against law enforcement are taken seriously. The statements made by Mr. Mullinix were not off handed, but were direct and specific," said Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Springfield Field Office, Karen Marinos. "FBI Springfield thanks our law enforcement partners for the assistance they provided in this matter and for treating it with the seriousness it deserved."

On Jan. 22, law enforcement interviewed Mullinix at his residence and seized two rifles.

A complaint is merely an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI Springfield Field Office is leading the investigation.