A Pennsylvania man who posted online threats against Donald Trump shortly before the president’s second inauguration has been sentenced to probation instead of prison time. The ruling came after federal prosecutors sought a one-year prison sentence in connection with threats made on TikTok in January 2025.
Jacob Buckley, 23, pleaded guilty last summer to making threats against the president-elect. Chief U.S. District Judge Matthew Brann of the Middle District of Pennsylvania ordered Buckley to serve one year of probation, pay a $500 fine, and participate in mental health treatment as part of his sentence.
Incident
According to court documents, Buckley posted several threatening comments during a TikTok livestream on Jan. 16, 2025, just days before Trump returned to office.
One post reportedly stated, “I hate MAGA republicans bro on god I’ll kill all of them.” Another directly referenced Trump, saying, “I’m going to kill Trump.”
Investigators also cited a third message posted the same day in which Buckley wrote, “Bro we going into a literal oligarchy in 4 days and im going to kill Trump.”
Authorities said the posts were made using a TikTok profile associated with Buckley’s name.
Federal agencies routinely investigate threats against presidents and president-elects, especially during periods of heightened political tension and major transitions in government. Even statements made online can lead to criminal charges if they are considered credible threats under federal law.
Hearing
During the sentencing hearing, Buckley addressed the court and expressed regret over his actions. According to PennLive, he stated that “there is no excuse” for what he posted and added, “I wish I could take it back.”
Judge Brann considered several factors before issuing the sentence. The court noted that Buckley did not have a prior criminal record and that investigators found no evidence suggesting he intended or attempted to carry out the threats.
Instead of incarceration, the judge opted for a sentence focused on supervision and treatment.
Sentence
Buckley’s sentence includes multiple conditions tied to probation and mental health care.
| Sentence Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Probation | 1 year |
| Fine | $500 |
| Mental Health Treatment | Required |
| Medication Compliance | Mandatory if prescribed |
The court ordered Buckley to participate in a mental health treatment program and continue taking any medications prescribed to him during the probation period.
Federal judges often weigh factors such as criminal history, cooperation, mental health, and public safety concerns when determining sentences in threat-related cases.
Law
Threats against presidents, former presidents, and president-elects are federal offenses in the United States. The law applies regardless of whether the threat is made in person, online, or through other forms of communication.
While the First Amendment protects a broad range of speech, courts have repeatedly ruled that direct threats of violence are not protected.
In recent years, law enforcement agencies have increasingly monitored social media platforms for statements that could indicate potential threats to public officials. TikTok, X, Facebook, and other platforms have become common sources of evidence in federal investigations.
Authorities generally examine whether a statement appears credible, whether the person had the ability or intent to act, and whether the communication caused concern for public safety.
Comparisons
Buckley’s sentence differs from penalties imposed in several other recent cases involving threats against Trump and government institutions.
Earlier in 2025, a Florida man was sentenced to more than two years in federal prison after making threats involving what prosecutors described as a planned presidential assassination attempt.
In another case, a Hawaii woman received seven months in prison followed by three years of supervised release after threatening to “blow up the White House and kill the president.”
The outcomes reflect how sentencing decisions can vary depending on the nature of the threats, criminal background, mental health evaluations, and evidence gathered during investigations.
| Defendant | Alleged Threat | Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Jacob Buckley | Threats against Trump on TikTok | 1 year probation |
| Florida man | Assassination-related threats | More than 2 years prison |
| Hawaii woman | White House attack threats | 7 months prison |
Reactions
The case has drawn attention because of the decision to avoid prison time despite the seriousness of the threats. Some observers believe the sentence reflects the court’s focus on rehabilitation and mental health treatment, while others argue that stronger penalties are necessary in cases involving threats against national leaders.
Legal experts note that federal courts have broad discretion during sentencing. Judges may consider whether a defendant has a history of violence, whether the threats appeared realistic, and whether treatment could reduce future risks.
The court’s decision suggests that Judge Brann viewed supervision and treatment as appropriate based on the specific circumstances presented in Buckley’s case.
Security
Threats against presidents and major political figures remain a significant concern for federal authorities. The U.S. Secret Service and FBI regularly investigate online posts that mention violence or assassination threats.
Security agencies have increased attention on social media activity over the past decade because online platforms allow messages to spread rapidly and reach large audiences.
Officials also warn that even statements made impulsively or without intent can carry legal consequences if they are interpreted as threats.
Buckley’s case illustrates how online comments can quickly become the subject of federal investigations, particularly when they involve elected officials or public figures under Secret Service protection.
Although he avoided prison, Buckley will remain under court supervision during his probation period and must comply with treatment requirements ordered by the court.
FAQs
Who is Jacob Buckley?
A Pennsylvania man convicted over Trump threats.
What sentence did Buckley receive?
He received probation, a fine, and treatment.
Where were the threats posted?
The threats were posted on TikTok.
Did prosecutors seek prison time?
Yes, prosecutors requested one year in prison.
Was mental health treatment required?
Yes, the court ordered treatment and medication.
