An Illinois man has been charged with making interstate threats to kill a public official after posting Instagram videos calling for President Donald Trump’s execution, according to federal authorities. U.S. agents have linked these actions to an active Secret Service investigation, following the dissemination of violent content on social media platforms.
Federal agencies have filed a criminal complaint against Trent Schneider, a 57-year-old man from Winthrop Harbor, Illinois, alleging that he made a true threat to injure another person in interstate commerce. The allegations stem from a series of videos and memes, some of which include profanity, references to violence, and direct calls for the execution of various public officials. These posts were uploaded over several days, with Schneider tagging locations like Trump Tower Chicago in his content.
A viewer based in Florida who witnessed one of Schneider’s videos reported the matter to authorities, prompting the U.S. Secret Service to initiate an investigation. The social media account used by Schneider was identified, and the content of his posts was found to be viewable nationwide. Law enforcement agents arrived at Schneider’s residence in Winthrop Harbor on October 22 and encountered cameras set up on tripods in the driveway. Schneider came outside, confronted the officers, and later posted a video of them walking away, again with the same caption referencing Trump’s execution.
The Secret Service, alongside local law enforcement, has taken action to execute search and arrest warrants at Schneider’s home, resulting in his arrest without incident. The U.S. Department of Justice notes that if Schneider is convicted, he could face a maximum of five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
The allegations also mention a previous interaction between Schneider and law enforcement in 2022, where he was involved in an investigation related to violent social media posts targeting public officials. In 2023, he was found unfit to stand trial after a prior arrest related to threats of violence at a T-Mobile store. The situation surrounding Schneider appears to be exacerbated by the looming foreclosure of his home, which was scheduled for auction on November 4, contributing to his financial stress and alleged anger.