By Gloria Drealomalicha
US federal agents have arrested podcaster Azariah Southworth in Los Angeles over allegations that he threatened to kill President Donald Trump.
Southworth was taken into federal custody in Los Angeles following an investigation into statements he allegedly made about the US president, the New York Post reported on Thursday.
He is known for hosting the Yass, Jesus podcast and previously presented the Christian television programme The Remix.
The circumstances surrounding his arrest have drawn the attention of federal authorities, who investigate threats against the president as potential federal offences.
Under US law, it is a federal crime to knowingly and wilfully threaten to kill, kidnap or cause bodily harm to the president. However, an alleged statement must meet the legal threshold for a criminal threat before prosecutors can secure a conviction.
Details of any formal charges against Southworth were not immediately available in the report.
The allegations against him have also not been tested in court. His arrest does not amount to a finding of guilt, and he remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Federal authorities have prosecuted similar cases in recent years involving individuals accused of making threats against Trump, including threats allegedly made online and through other forms of communication.
Southworth’s arrest comes amid continuing security concerns over threats directed at Trump and other senior US officials.
Further details about the allegations, any charges filed and Southworth’s next court appearance are expected to become clearer as the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
Leave a Reply