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Grand Rapids Man Indicted for Threats Against President

An abstract representation of the important role of justice in addressing threats made on social media.

News Summary

James Donald Vance Jr., a 42-year-old from Grand Rapids, faces federal indictment for threatening to kill and injure the President and Vice President of the United States through social media posts. After being arrested and pleading not guilty, Vance is awaiting trial with strict restrictions on his movements and online activities. The case raises concerns about public safety and the legal consequences of online threats.

Grand Rapids, Michigan – James Donald Vance Jr., a 42-year-old resident of Grand Rapids, has been federally indicted for allegedly threatening to kill and injure the President and Vice President of the United States. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan announced the indictment, which consists of one count of making threats against high-ranking officials, alongside two additional counts of interstate threatening communications.

The accusations arise from threats made in posts on his Bluesky social media account under the alias “Diaperjdv.” The posts in question were allegedly made on April 1, 2025, where Vance made specific threats against politicians, including a chilling message about the former President, Donald Trump, and the current President. In reference to Trump, Vance wrote that if certain high-profile individuals returned to Grand Rapids, they “will leave it in a body bag.” Furthermore, Vance communicated a disregard for his own safety, suggesting that he was prepared to face severe consequences for his actions.

Vance has also been accused of directing threatening language towards Donald Trump Jr., indicating his intent to cause harm if Trump Jr. pursued a political career. Following his arrest in Grand Rapids, Vance pleaded not guilty to all charges during his arraignment and has been released on a personal recognizance bond pending trial.

Background of the Case

The investigation leading to Vance’s indictment was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service in collaboration with the Grand Rapids Police Department. The threats against the President and Vice President carry serious legal ramifications, with potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching $250,000. Additionally, each count of interstate threatening communications could result in up to 5 years in prison along with the same monetary fines.

Court Proceedings and Restrictions

A jury trial for Vance has been scheduled for August 5th, which will be held at the Federal Building in Kalamazoo. As a condition of his release, Vance is not permitted to leave western Michigan without court approval. Furthermore, he is prohibited from the use or possession of alcohol and firearms. His online activities are also being monitored, with restrictions placed on his use of social media and access to the internet.

Impact on the Community

The case has raised concerns within the community regarding public safety and the seriousness of threats made via social media. Law enforcement agencies are continuously monitoring online platforms for similar threats to help prevent potential violence and ensure the safety of public figures and citizens alike. This indictment serves as a reminder of the importance and consequences of online speech and the legal repercussions of threatening communications.

Conclusion

As the judicial process progresses, the implications of Vance’s indictment underscore the critical role that law enforcement and the justice system play in addressing threats against public officials. The upcoming trial will not only determine Vance’s legal fate but also serve as a further examination of the boundaries of free speech and the responsibility that comes with it.