Michigan Man Charged After Threats to Assassinate Trump and Vice President Vance

Federal authorities have charged James Donald Vance Jr., 29, of Grand Rapids, after he allegedly posted chilling threats against former President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Vance on the social platform Bluesky.

According to an indictment unsealed Tuesday, Vance used the alias “Diaperjdv” and threatened violence on April 1, writing:

“If tRump, Vance, or Musk ever come to my city again, they will leave it in a body bag. I will either be shot by a secret service sniper or spend the rest of my life in prison.”

That same indictment includes a March 7 post targeting Donald Trump Jr., where Vance warned he would kill him before security details could respond.

Charges & Legal Status

Vance Jr. now faces federal charges for:

• Threatening to harm the President and Vice President

• Two counts under the Interstate Threatening Communications Act.

During a hearing, he pleaded not guilty and was released on a personal-recognizance bond, meaning he remains free while awaiting trial.

Bigger Picture & Security Response

This case falls under stringent laws protecting national leaders. Threats via electronic platforms—even if not acted upon—are taken seriously and often lead to federal prosecution.

The U.S. Secret Service, responsible for presidential protection, treats social media threats with high priority. Prosecutors contend Vance’s language was explicit enough to trigger an investigation and formal charges.

Why It Matters

• Deterrence through enforcement: These prosecutions aim to curb violent rhetoric online and protect public figures.

• Broader context: This comes amid multiple high-profile plots or threats against public officials during Trump’s tenure and campaign.

• Legal precedent: The outcome could influence how authorities distinguish between inflammatory speech and prosecutable threats.

What’s Next

• Vance Jr. will face a federal trial where prosecutors must prove intent behind the statements.

• Possible penalties include prison time if convicted.

• Secret Service monitoring and legal precedents from this case could shape future enforcement of online threats.