A 23-year-old South Bend, Indiana, man was arrested by the FBI on January 23, 2025, after allegedly posting a series of TikTok videos inciting violence against President Donald Trump and encouraging attacks on the U.S. government. The suspect, Douglas Thrams, reportedly began sharing these messages shortly after Trump’s second inauguration on January 20, expressing his dissatisfaction with the president’s return to office.
According to court records, Thrams used social media to spread calls for violent action, citing the Second Amendment and the Declaration of Independence to justify his rhetoric. In one video, he is seen holding a rifle while stating, “A friendly reminder that the Second Amendment gives us rights. Also, our Declaration of Independence says we can take over the government or start a new one if we need to. I just want to know where, when, and how.”
Another video allegedly included explicit calls for bombing government buildings and assassinating President Trump. In one particularly alarming post, Thrams reportedly declared, “It must be done and this time, no mistakes,” suggesting a direct incitement to violence. He also called for an organized movement but did not appear to position himself as its leader. “Tell me where to point the gun and we can get started,” he allegedly said in another post.
Thrams’ use of historical documents, such as the Declaration of Independence, to justify his statements raises legal and constitutional questions. While the First Amendment protects free speech, it does not extend to direct threats or incitements to violence. The FBI charged Thrams under federal law with “interstate communications with threats to injure,” a serious offense that carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Legal experts note that cases involving threats against public officials have increased in recent years, with social media playing a significant role in amplifying such messages. Past cases, such as those involving threats against former presidents or members of Congress, have often resulted in convictions and prison sentences. Federal prosecutors typically take these cases seriously, arguing that such rhetoric poses real dangers, particularly in a politically polarized environment.
Authorities have not disclosed how they initially became aware of Thrams’ posts, though federal agencies routinely monitor social media platforms for potential threats against government officials. It is unclear whether TikTok cooperated with law enforcement in identifying the videos, but major social media companies have policies prohibiting content that incites violence and often work with authorities in such cases.
The arrest has sparked a range of reactions. Supporters of strong enforcement against political threats argue that such statements, whether intended seriously or not, contribute to a culture of violence and must be prosecuted. Others, however, have raised concerns about free speech implications, questioning how the government distinguishes between hyperbolic rhetoric and genuine threats. Some political analysts warn that as tensions remain high in the wake of Trump’s return to office, law enforcement agencies will likely continue to face challenges in addressing politically motivated threats.
The case was first reported by Court Watch, a legal news outlet that tracks high-profile criminal cases. Thrams is expected to make his first court appearance later this month, where prosecutors will likely argue for pretrial detention, citing the severity of the charges and the potential risk of further incitement. His legal representation has not yet issued a public statement.