Columbus, Ohio – A 21-year-old Columbus man has been federally indicted following disturbing online threats directed at federal immigration agents. Justin Mesael Novoa now faces serious charges after allegedly posting multiple violent messages on social media targeting agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio, Novoa has been charged with two federal crimes: threatening to assault or murder a federal law enforcement officer and making threatening interstate communications. The indictment was officially handed down on February 5, 2026. These charges follow a previous criminal complaint filed against Novoa on January 22.
Federal court documents reveal that in June 2025, Novoa allegedly posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter): “they should blast every ice agent they find.” Months later, in November 2025, he reportedly escalated his threats, writing: “can’t wait to shoot these p***y ice agents and r******d maga maggots.” Authorities identified him under the screennames “Lord of Frenzied Flame” and “Father2High.”
The investigation, conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), led federal agents to execute a search warrant at Novoa’s residence in December 2025. During the search, law enforcement seized multiple firearms, including two rifles, two shotguns, and one handgun, along with ammunition. Officers also discovered two helmets and a body armor vest in his possession.
Authorities emphasize that these findings raised serious concerns, particularly when combined with the online threats. If convicted, Novoa faces up to 10 years in federal prison for threatening a law enforcement officer, and an additional five years for making threatening interstate communications.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy D. Prichard, with U.S. Attorney Dominick S. Gerace II and HSI Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey overseeing the investigation.
