John Paul Cupp, 45, is accused of making violent threats against law enforcement officers and their families at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in South Portland. The FBI has charged Cupp with making threats against a federal law enforcement officer after he hurled insults at officers on October 14. According to court filings, Cupp’s remarks included a threat to kill law enforcement officers, sexually assault their wives, and harm their children.
Cupp’s alleged threats were not limited to in-person confrontations. On November 3, 2025, he posted a video online reiterating the same violent threats against federal agents and their families. The FBI noted that Cupp’s online content also includes aggressive rhetoric, antisemitic threats, and calls for war against the United States. FBI Director Kash Patel told Fox News Digital that the agency is committed to fighting extremism, stating that anyone threatening law enforcement or their families will face the full weight of the federal government.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford reiterated that threats of violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated, and that the office is dedicated to holding those who threaten and intimidate law enforcement accountable. Acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Matt Torres said that threats against law enforcement have no place in the community and that the FBI will use all investigative means available to seek out and arrest those using violent rhetoric to express themselves. These statements underscore a broader law enforcement focus on addressing threats to officers and their families, particularly in the context of the ongoing discussions around immigration policy and national security.