Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening federal Official’s Family
Table of Contents
Anthony Noto, 63, of New York, pleaded guilty on January 5, 2026, to transmitting a threat to injure the wife of a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) deportation officer.The plea was entered in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, Atlanta. This case highlights the increasing concern and prosecution of threats against law enforcement personnel and their families.
Details of the Threat
According to a release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the incident stemmed from a post on Instagram. After an individual shared identifying facts about a DHS deportation officer and his wife online, Noto commented on a picture of the officer’s wife, stating, “Anybody wanna test the sites [sic] on their new A-R? There’s a pretty good target right there!” U.S. Department of Justice
The indictment alleged that Noto “consciously disregarded a substantial risk that his dialogue would be viewed as threatening violence.” The use of the term “A-R” is believed to refer to an assault rifle, further indicating the threatening nature of the comment.
Legal Consequences and Official Statements
Noto faces a sentencing hearing on April 16, 2026. The maximum penalty for knowingly transmitting a threat in interstate commerce is five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. attorney Theodore S. hertzberg emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating, “Threatening to harm a federal agent’s spouse, child, or other loved one is inexcusable, outrageous, and illegal. Through swift and aggressive prosecution,my office will bring to justice anyone who commits or threatens violence against federal agents and their families.” U.S. Department of Justice
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown added, “Threatening law enforcement officers or their families will not be tolerated.” U.S. Department of Justice
The Rise in Threats Against Public Servants
This case is part of a broader trend of increasing threats against law enforcement officials and government employees. The Department of Justice has been actively prosecuting such cases, recognizing the potential for real-world violence stemming from online threats. Department of Justice Report on Threats Against Law Enforcement
Key takeaways
- anthony Noto pleaded guilty to threatening the wife of a DHS deportation officer on Instagram.
- The threat involved a reference to using an “A-R” (assault rifle) against the victim.
- The case underscores the federal government’s commitment to prosecuting threats against law enforcement and their families.
- Threats made online can have serious legal consequences.
The sentencing of Anthony Noto will likely serve as a deterrent to others considering making similar threats. As online platforms continue to be used for communication, law enforcement agencies are increasingly focused on monitoring and responding to potential threats against public servants and their loved ones.
Worth a look