Pennsylvania Man Sentenced After Making Violent Online Threats

Shawn Monper of Butler County, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to four years in federal prison this week. The 33 year old pleaded guilty to two counts of threatening federal officials and law enforcement officers after posting violent messages on YouTube between January and April of 2025.

Evidence presented in court showed that Monper obtained a gun permit shortly after the January 2025 inauguration. He subsequently posted about purchasing firearms and ammunition, while also claiming he planned to carry out a mass shooting. YouTube alerted the FBI to these posts, leading to his arrest in April 2025.

U.S. District Judge W. Scott Hardy described the behavior as extremely serious criminal conduct. In addition to his four year prison term, Monper will serve three years of supervised release. This case highlights how authorities monitor digital platforms for credible threats against public officials and public safety.