Western Reader
A young teacher in Arizona has found himself in trouble after allegedly sending threatening messages to two well-known conservative figures. This has led to his suspension and involvement of the police.
Teacher Arrested for Alleged Threats
A social studies teacher from Arizona, Daniel Ashpes, was taken into custody on October 17 for purportedly sending threatening messages to Donald Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk during a rally in the East Valley. Ashpes, aged 24, is accused of sending these threats via an automated messaging service for rally RSVPs. Following his admission during police questioning, Ashpes faces charges including three counts of threatening physical harm and one count of using a phone for intimidation. He has been placed on administrative leave from Desert Vista High School where he taught.
The authorities conducted an interview with Ashpes where he confessed to sending the threats. As a result, he is now facing multiple charges, including three counts of threatening physical injury and one charge of using a phone to intimidate. Ashpes has been placed on administrative leave from 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 works, stresses its strict stand against any form of harassment or threats by its employees or students. A spokesperson for the school district commented, “While we cannot delve into the specifics of the situation, we are aware that Tempe PD has pressed charges related to alleged online threats.” Ashpes’s legal issues and arrest come amidst heightened political tensions.
The school district’s firm response highlights the seriousness of such behaviors and echos their dedication to upholding a safe and respectful environment.
A person accused of making online threats towards Donald Trump Jr. and conservative political activist Charlie Kirk during their stay in the Valley for a campaign rally has been apprehended. https://t.co/Usdb5ZbOxE
— FOX 10 Phoenix (@FOX10Phoenix) October 22, 2024
Impact on Campaign Activities
These threats have come at a crucial juncture for Donald Trump Jr., who is actively participating in the campaign for former President Donald Trump. Both Trump Jr. and Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point Action, hold significant roles in the campaign, engaging with supporters via various media platforms.
Their upcoming rallies in Duluth, Georgia, and Las Vegas underscore Trump’s targeted approach towards younger male voters, often termed as the “bro vote.”
While Trump Jr. and Kirk persist in their campaign endeavors, political tensions continue to run high. This incident serves as a reminder of the challenging nature of political conversations, where threats and coercion have sadly become too frequent. Ashpes’s legal predicament emphasizes the importance of maintaining respectful engagement in democratic processes.
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