A young teacher in Arizona finds himself in hot water after allegedly sending threatening messages to two well-known conservative figures. He has been placed on leave and police are involved.
Teacher Arrested for Alleged Threats
An Arizona social studies teacher, Daniel Ashpes, was arrested on October 17 for allegedly sending threatening messages to Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk. The messages were reportedly sent as the duo participated in a rally in the East Valley. Ashpes, aged 24, is accused of making these threats through an automated messaging service for rally RSVPs. He was subsequently booked into the Tempe City Jail.
The police interviewed Ashpes, during which he admitted to sending the threats. He now faces multiple charges, including three counts of threatening to cause physical injury and one charge of using a phone to intimidate. Ashpes has been placed on administrative leave from his teaching position at Desert Vista High School.
High school social studies teacher arrested for threatening Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk after receiving message about Turning Point rally: Cops https://t.co/bZVWLhYNnM
— Law & Crime (@lawcrimenews) October 23, 2024
School District’s Zero-Tolerance Policy
The Tempe Union High School District, where Ashpes is employed, affirms its strict stance against any form of harassment or threats by employees or students. A spokesman for the school district stated, “While we cannot comment on the specifics of the situation, we are aware that Tempe PD has filed charges related to alleged online threats.” Ashpes’s arrest and legal troubles come amidst heightened political tensions.
The school district’s clear response emphasizes the gravity of such actions and reflects their commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment.
A man accused of making online threats towards Donald Trump Jr. and conservative political activist Charlie Kirk while they were in the Valley for a campaign rally has been arrested. https://t.co/Usdb5ZbOxE
— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) October 22, 2024
Impact on Campaign Activities
The threats came at a critical time for Donald Trump Jr., who is actively campaigning for former President Donald Trump. Both he and Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point Action, play pivotal roles in the campaign, engaging with supporters through various media channels.
Their upcoming rallies in Duluth, Georgia, and Las Vegas demonstrate Trump’s focused appeal to younger male voters, often referred to as the “bro vote.”
As Trump Jr. and Kirk continue their campaign efforts, political tensions remain high. This incident underscores the challenging landscape of political discourse, where threats and intimidation have become disturbingly commonplace. The legal consequences faced by Ashpes highlight the importance of maintaining civil engagement in democratic processes.