A former teaching assistant at Illinois State University has been charged with allegedly making threats against President Donald J. Trump, according to federal authorities. Derek Lopez, 27, of El Paso, Illinois, was arrested on October 28, 2025, and is set for preliminary and detention hearings on November 3, 2025, at the federal courthouse in Peoria.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois stated that Lopez faces charges related to threats against a sitting president. The FBI Springfield Office confirmed the arrest followed a month-long investigation involving local and state partners, including the Illinois State University Police Department.
Lopez, who was fired from his role as a graduate teaching assistant after a viral video showed him flipping over a table belonging to Turning Point USA members on campus, had previously been arrested for disorderly conduct and criminal damage to property. In the video, he remarked, “Well, you know, Jesus did it, so you know I gotta do it, right?” before tipping the table.
The FBI emphasized that Lopez’s alleged online statements, including posts referencing violence against Trump and claims of killing conservative activist Charlie Kirk, were deemed unacceptable. FBI Director Kash Patel condemned the threats, stating they “have no place in American society” and reiterated the agency’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for such actions.
Lopez’s defense reportedly framed his online activity as performance art and cited First Amendment protections. However, federal prosecutors highlighted his explicit threats, including a post stating, “I’m gonna kill Donald Trump,” according to an affidavit. If convicted, Lopez could face up to five years in prison.
