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Who is George Isbell Jr? Man arrested for threatening to kill Benny Johnson and his family over 'his views'
George Isbell Jr. "made it clear he hated Benny Johnson's views and wanted him and his family dead." He was taken into custody on Friday morning.
A man identified as George Russell Isbell Jr.. has been arrested for allegedly threatening to kill political commentator Benny Johnson, his wife Kate, and their four children.
Who is George Isbell Jr.?
George Russell Isbell Jr. is a 69-year-old man from San Diego, California. He allegedly sent a handwritten letter to Johnson's home in Tampa, Florida, containing explicit and violent threats directed at the entire family.
According to a press release from the Department of Justice, the letter made disturbing references to Johnson’s political views and his association with conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot at an event in Utah last month.
"After writing that he hoped that the American flag ‘strangles the life out of you,’ the letter went on to state: “Maybe someone will blow your head off!!! We can hope! Planning any public engagements? Love to see your head explode and your blood stain the concrete red. What a sight!'" the press release stated.
Pam Bondi confirms arrest
In a press conference held Friday, Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that Isbell had been taken into custody and would face federal charges.
"Threats were made against Benny Johnson and his wife Kate. Just says after Charlie's assassination, they received a letter at their home. The author of this letter made it clear he hates their views and wants them dead," she said.
“This was a coward hiding behind a keyboard who thought he could get away with this...you are NOT going to get away with threatening people,” she added. "We have arrested the author of this letter. George Isbell Jr. has been taken into custody this morning and will be charged federally. If convicted, he is going to prison."
Benny Johnson responds
Following the arrest, Benny Johnson issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter), thanking those who acted quickly to protect his family.
“I want to thank President Trump, AG Pam Bondi, and the Department of Justice for immediately acting and saving my family. We are forever grateful,” he wrote. "Let me be absolutely clear: We will not be silenced. We will not back down. We will not break. You lit a fire that cannot be put out. Charlie Kirk taught us to go on offense. That is exactly what we will do. We will work harder, speak louder, and grow stronger. We will continue to move TPUSA’s mission forward. For Charlie."
