Zachary Charles Newell, 25, of Newport, North Carolina, has been arrested and charged with federal offenses after posting violent threats online against Black preschool children, prompting a swift FBI and local law enforcement response. FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of these threats, calling them ‘unacceptable acts of cowardice’ and vowing to protect children and communities. The FBI worked closely with Carteret County officials to ensure Newell was taken into custody before any potential violence could occur, demonstrating the urgency of addressing online threats to schools and communities.
Prosecutors allege that Newell, using the username ‘CommentatorsHateMe,’ made a YouTube comment on August 27, stating his intention to ‘shoot up’ a preschool and injure or kill 20 Black children, along with other violent and racist threats. The following day, he made another race-related threat under the same account, which included several slurs. Google LLC reported these threats to the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center on August 31, after linking the account to Newell’s personal information, including his address and phone numbers. Law enforcement traced the IP address to Charter Communications in Newport, leading to Newell’s arrest at his home. He allegedly admitted to making the threats, and a search warrant was executed at his residence. Though initially charged in state court, Newell was later transferred to federal custody for additional charges.
Carteret County Sheriff’s Office clarified that there was no specific preschool or educational property mentioned in the threats, and there is currently no active threat of violence at any local schools. Sheriff Asa Buck condemned the comments as violent, hateful, and shocking, emphasizing the county’s swift response and commitment to enforcing the law against such threats. FBI Special Agent James Barnacle reiterated the FBI’s role in investigating threats against schools, stating that the federal charge serves as a warning to those who threaten with anonymity. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat online extremism and protect vulnerable communities, particularly in educational settings.
The FBI’s ability to detect and respond to such threats is a critical component of national security, especially in an era where cyber threats can escalate quickly. The arrest underscores the importance of collaboration between federal and local agencies to prevent acts of violence. While the case does not involve financial implications, it raises broader concerns about the impact of online hate speech and the need for stronger measures to address such threats. The incident also highlights the role of tech platforms in reporting suspicious activity, as Google’s reporting to the FBI was instrumental in identifying the suspect.
As the case progresses, it may serve as a precedent for future investigations involving online threats and hate crimes. The FBI’s swift action in this instance reflects its dedication to public safety and underscores the need for continued vigilance against potential acts of violence. The incident also calls attention to the broader issue of school safety and the importance of addressing threats at the earliest stage to prevent tragic outcomes.