URGENT UPDATE: A Portland man has been charged with making violent threats against law enforcement officers and their families, according to federal authorities. John Paul Cupp, aged 45, is now facing serious federal charges after alarming online rants raised concerns for public safety.
The threats reportedly began on October 14, 2025, when Cupp confronted officers near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in South Portland. Witnesses reported that he shouted direct threats to kill the officers and sexually assault their wives. Court documents state, “Cupp threatened to kill law enforcement officers, sexually assault their wives, and harm their children,” as detailed by the FBI.
The threats escalated after this initial encounter. On November 3, 2025, Cupp posted a video online where he reiterated his violent rhetoric against federal agents and their families. Just ten days later, on November 13, he shared additional posts that continued to target law enforcement with similar alarming claims.
Federal authorities describe Cupp as “a prolific producer of online content,” who consistently engages in aggressive rhetoric and calls for violence against the United States. This troubling pattern of behavior has prompted immediate action from law enforcement.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of these threats, stating, “If you threaten to kill law enforcement officers or harm their families, you will face the full weight of the federal government.” He assured the public that the FBI is committed to using every available investigative tool to identify and remove violent extremists from communities.
In a statement, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford echoed this sentiment, reinforcing that violent threats against law enforcement “will not be tolerated.” He affirmed the commitment of his office to hold accountable those who threaten the safety of community protectors: “We will continue to prosecute criminal threats of violence to the fullest extent of the law.”
Acting FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Matt Torres warned that such threats undermine the safety of the public and the integrity of those sworn to protect it. “Attempts to intimidate those sworn to protect the American people and uphold our Constitution degrade efforts to keep all of us safe,” Torres said.
Cupp remains in federal custody as authorities prepare for the next steps in this case. A court date has not yet been announced, but the FBI and other federal agencies are actively monitoring the situation as it develops.
This alarming case reflects a broader trend of rising threats against law enforcement, prompting agencies to intensify their efforts to combat extremism. For communities across the nation, the implications of such threats are profound, reinforcing the need for vigilance and support for those who serve and protect.
Stay tuned for updates as this case unfolds.
