UPDATE: A 34-year-old Dutchess County man was arrested Saturday night for threatening to “eliminate” U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, according to state police. Christopher Moynihan, previously pardoned for his role in the January 6 Capitol riots, faces a felony charge for making a terroristic threat.
Authorities confirm that Moynihan was taken into custody at 9:55 PM on October 18, 2025, following a tip from the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. The threat against Jeffries was deemed credible and alarming, as detailed in police reports.
Moynihan allegedly sent text messages expressing a desire to kill Jeffries, stating, “Hakeem Jeffries makes a speech in a few days in NYC. I cannot allow this terrorist to live. Even if I am hated, he must be eliminated, I will kill him for the future.” These messages raised significant concern for the safety of the congressman.
In response to the threats, Jeffries remarked on social media, “Threats of violence will not stop us from showing up, standing up and speaking up for the American people.” He expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their rapid intervention.
Moynihan’s criminal history is alarming. He was among the first to breach barricades at the Capitol on January 6, 2021, and was previously convicted of multiple charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding. After serving 21 months in prison, he was granted a pardon by Donald Trump in January, along with around 1,500 others convicted in connection to the riots.
U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, representing the same district as Moynihan, condemned the situation, stating, “Donald Trump pardoned him. Now Christopher is back in custody for THREATENING TO KILL A MEMBER OF CONGRESS.” Ryan criticized the pardons that have allowed individuals like Moynihan to re-offend.
Moynihan is currently held at Dutchess County Jail with bail set at $10,000 cash, $30,000 bond, or $80,000 partially secured bond. The situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding the implications of pardons granted by Trump, with Jeffries noting that many released individuals have committed additional crimes since their pardons.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging vigilance and cooperation from the community to ensure safety and prevent further threats. The incident underscores the serious ramifications of political violence and the urgent need for accountability.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
