BREAKING: A Portland man, John Paul Cupp, has been charged with making violent threats against law enforcement officers, escalating concerns over extremist rhetoric. Federal authorities announced the charges today, emphasizing the seriousness of Cupp’s online harassment and direct confrontations with officers.
On October 14, 2025, Cupp, aged 45, confronted officers outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in South Portland, where he allegedly shouted threats to kill law enforcement and sexually assault their spouses. This initial encounter marked the beginning of a disturbing pattern of violent online behavior.
According to court documents, Cupp continued his tirade online, posting a video on November 3, 2025, where he reiterated threats against federal agents and their families. Just ten days later, on November 13, he shared additional posts containing similar aggressive rhetoric, targeting officers and their loved ones.
The FBI describes Cupp as “a prolific producer of online content,” stating he regularly disseminates “aggressive rhetoric, calls for war against the United States, antisemitic threats, and threats of violence.” Such alarming behavior has raised red flags about the rising tide of extremist threats in the country.
“If you threaten to kill law enforcement officers or harm their families, you will face the full weight of the federal government,”
stated FBI Director Kash Patel, affirming the agency’s commitment to tackling violent extremism. He added that the FBI will employ every available investigative tool to identify and apprehend individuals like Cupp who pose a threat to public safety.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford echoed these sentiments, stressing that threats against law enforcement will not be tolerated. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to holding those accountable who threaten and intimidate those who protect our communities,” he said. Bradford emphasized the office’s resolve to prosecute such threats to the fullest extent of the law.
Matt Torres, acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge, highlighted the detrimental impact of Cupp’s threats on public safety. “Attempts to intimidate those sworn to protect the American people degrade efforts to keep all of us safe,” he stated. He assured the public that the FBI will pursue all means necessary to arrest individuals engaging in violent rhetoric.
Cupp currently remains in federal custody as the case progresses. Authorities have yet to announce a court date for his next appearance, leaving the community and law enforcement on alert regarding this serious situation.
The urgency of this case reflects not only the threats made by Cupp but also a larger trend of increasing hostility towards law enforcement, making it vital for communities to stay informed and vigilant.
