Chicago Man Charged After Allegedly Sending Detailed Assassination Threats Against President Trump

By Aidan Christion

CHICAGO — A Chicago man has been charged in a federal case after allegedly sending a series of detailed threats to assassinate President Donald Trump, including claims he would carry out a sniper attack on the White House lawn using a high-powered rifle, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Michael Kovco, 29, of Chicago, is accused of transmitting multiple messages to official CIA and White House websites in which he allegedly outlined plans to kill the president, target U.S. Secret Service agents, and harm members of the president’s family. In one message sent to the CIA on August 15, 2025, Kovco allegedly wrote, “I am plotting to kill the president … in an ambush,” while requesting a “clear line of fire” from the White House to Marine One during a departure.

Federal authorities say Kovco described using a “heavy caliber” anti-materiel sniper rifle, a type of long-range firearm typically designed for military use. In subsequent messages, including one sent to the White House on March 17, 2026, Kovco allegedly escalated his threats, claiming he would carry out an assassination attempt and later target the president’s son, Barron Trump, with a knife.

According to the federal complaint, Kovco continued sending messages on March 19, just hours after federal agents and Secret Service task force officers visited his Chicago residence to question him about earlier threats. In those messages, he allegedly stated he intended to acquire firearms, build explosive devices, and carry out additional attacks, while also threatening to “hunt” any Secret Service agent who attempted to intervene.

Investigators were able to quickly identify Kovco after he allegedly included his personal contact information, including his phone number and email address, in the messages sent to federal agencies.

Kovco was arrested on April 3 and charged with transmitting a threat in interstate commerce, a federal offense that carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison if convicted. Authorities have not indicated whether he had the means to carry out the alleged plans but emphasized that the specificity, repetition, and escalation of the threats warranted immediate federal action.

The case highlights the seriousness with which federal agencies treat threats against the president, particularly when they involve detailed plans, direct communication with government systems, and continued behavior after law enforcement intervention. The investigation remains ongoing.