Dutchess County Man Arrested for Threatening Congressman Jeffries

UPDATE: A man from Dutchess County, who previously participated in the January 6 Capitol riots and was pardoned by former President Donald Trump, was arrested on October 18, 2025, for threatening to “eliminate” U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, the House Minority Leader. This alarming development occurred at 9:55 PM when state police were alerted by the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force regarding the serious threats made by Christopher Moynihan, 34.

Authorities revealed that Moynihan sent multiple text messages declaring his intent to kill Jeffries, stating, “Hakeem Jeffries makes a speech in a few days in NYC. I cannot allow this terrorist to live.” He further threatened, “Even if I am hated, he must be eliminated, I will kill him for the future.” These messages instilled a “reasonable fear” of imminent violence against Jeffries, according to the felony complaint.

Jeffries, who spoke at an event in Midtown shortly after the threats were made, responded on social media: “Threats of violence will not stop us from showing up, standing up and speaking up for the American people.” He expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their rapid response in apprehending Moynihan, emphasizing the seriousness of the threat against him.

Moynihan’s history is equally troubling. He was one of the first rioters to breach the barricades during the Capitol riots on January 6, 2021. In August 2022, he was convicted of obstructing an official proceeding and faced a 21-month prison sentence. However, he was later pardoned by Trump, alongside approximately 1,500 others, upon Trump’s return to office.

In a pointed statement on social media, U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan condemned Trump’s decision to pardon Moynihan, stating, “Now Christopher is back in custody for THREATENING TO KILL A MEMBER OF CONGRESS.” Ryan criticized the former president for prioritizing political loyalty over public safety.

Following his arrest, Moynihan was remanded to the Dutchess County Jail on a bail of $10,000 cash, $30,000 bond, or $80,000 partially secured bond. The legal repercussions of his threats are still unfolding, and the community is left under the shadow of this serious incident.

Jeffries reiterated concerns about the impact of pardons on public safety, stating that many individuals released under such measures have since committed further crimes. “Our brave men and women in law enforcement are being forced to spend their time keeping our communities safe from these violent individuals who should never have been pardoned,” he remarked.

As this situation develops, the public is urged to remain vigilant. Updates will follow as more details emerge regarding Moynihan’s case and the broader implications of his threats against a sitting member of Congress.