An Arizona teacher finds himself in legal trouble after allegedly threatening key conservative figures.
At a Glance
- Daniel Ashpes, a social studies teacher, was charged with threats against Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk.
- Threats coincided with an East Valley political rally featuring Trump Jr. and Kirk.
- Police reports confirm Ashpes admitted via text to making threats.
- Desert Vista High School has placed Ashpes on leave indefinitely.
Details of the Arrest
Daniel Ashpes, aged 24, was apprehended for allegedly sending threatening messages to Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk. These threats were purportedly disseminated during a political rally in the East Valley. The instructor from Desert Vista High School currently faces serious charges. He was booked into the Tempe City Jail on October 17. Local reports confirm the threats were targeted responses to an automated messaging service related to rally RSVPs.
A recent police interview revealed Ashpes’ admissions to sending the threatening messages. Consequently, he is dealing with three counts of threats to cause injury and another charge for using telecommunications to intimidate. At this time, Ashpes is on administrative leave, reflecting the Tempe Union High School District’s strict policy against harassment.
Just in: A man has been arrested for allegedly threatening Donald Trump Jr and Charlie Kirk. https://t.co/2d3ElQhEKE
— 12 News (@12News) October 22, 2024
School District’s Response
The Tempe Union High School District maintains a firm zero-tolerance stance regarding threats and harassment by staff or students. A district spokesman commented, “Mr. Daniel Ashpes is a Tempe Union High School District employee” and emphasized that Ashpes “has been placed on administrative leave as authorities investigate the situation at hand.” While specific details remain under wraps, the district acknowledged charges linked to the alleged threats against Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk.
The school district prioritizes safety and a respectful environment, which is underlined by their response to Ashpes’ arrest. Their commitment to addressing such incidents underscores the importance of maintaining an ethical boundary between personal beliefs and professional responsibilities.
BREAKING: Daniel Ashpes, a teacher at @TUHSD_News in Arizona was arrested after allegedly making online threats towards Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk.
The school has placed him on administrative leave.
The tolerant and loving Left strike again!
Oh also, homeschool your… pic.twitter.com/evG3Sv1xCq
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) October 23, 2024
Implications for Trump’s Campaign
Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk play pivotal roles in supporting the former president’s campaign. Trump Jr. asserts considerable influence and visibility, bolstering efforts to engage young male voters, sometimes dubbed as the “bro vote.” Kirk, founder of Turning Point Action, equally contributes through rallies, including one planned in Duluth, Georgia. These political endeavors strive to energize a demographic crucial to Trump’s outreach.
The recent threats against Trump Jr. and Kirk signify heightened tensions within political rallies. It underscores the ongoing risks associated with politically charged events and the need for continued vigilance amid such nationwide activities.
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