Vermont Man Charged With Threatening President Trump
Federal prosecutors have filed charges against a 21-year-old man who allegedly sent an online death threat to the FBI.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Terrorism
Authorities have taken 21-year-old Keegan Lagasse into custody after federal prosecutors charged him with threatening to kill President Donald Trump. A federal judge ordered Lagasse held following his recent appearance in court.
Why it matters
The charges stem from an online tip sent to the FBI in August where the defendant allegedly threatened the president. The case highlights ongoing federal efforts to investigate and prosecute threats made against high-level government officials.
Federal prosecutors filed the charges on September 17, 2026, and a judge has ordered the defendant held in custody. The case remains in the early stages as the government prepares for an upcoming arraignment.
The players
Keegan Lagasse
He is a 21-year-old from Richford, Vermont, who faces federal charges for threatening the President of the United States.
President Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States and was the target of the alleged death threat.
Federal Bureau of Investigation
This is the primary federal law enforcement agency responsible for investigating the threats made against government officials.
The details
Federal agents identified the origin of the threat in Richford, Vermont, by tracking phone and IP address data. Lagasse previously faced state-level charges related to threats against schools and businesses, and he allegedly threatened the White House with an explosive device in November 2025.
Timeline
In 2023, the defendant allegedly made threats against local schools and businesses.
In November 2025, Lagasse allegedly threatened the White House and President Trump.
On August 24, 2026, Lagasse sent an online threat to the FBI.
On September 17, 2026, federal prosecutors filed the charge against the defendant.
On September 22, 2026, Lagasse appeared in federal court for a hearing.
Legal Context
Federal prosecution of threats against the president falls under a strict federal penal code that allows for the detention of individuals deemed a risk. Recent years have seen increased scrutiny of online threats by the FBI as investigators leverage digital footprints to secure charges.
This case emphasizes the heightened security posture surrounding the President of the United States and the speed at which federal authorities now trace online threats. Residents in Vermont may see an increased law enforcement presence during the ongoing legal proceedings in Burlington.
The takeaway
The swift identification of the defendant through IP and phone tracking demonstrates the ability of law enforcement to trace online communications. Individuals should be aware that threats transmitted to federal agencies are treated with high priority and can lead to immediate federal detention.
What happens next
A formal arraignment for the defendant will be scheduled by the court at a later date.
Further reading
For more information on federal cases involving national security, visit the Terrorism section.
