Fact Check: "Stinson posted ominous threats just days after Trump's assassination attempt."
What We Know
The claim revolves around Peter Stinson, a former Coast Guard officer, who allegedly made threatening posts regarding former President Donald Trump shortly after an assassination attempt on him. On July 13, 2024, Trump survived an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, which has been widely reported (source-3, source-4). Following this incident, Stinson reportedly posted a message saying, "Just three inches and today would be a different day," which federal investigators interpreted as a direct threat (source-4).
Stinson's threats were made within 48 hours of the assassination attempt, indicating a potentially alarming timeline of events (source-4). He was charged with making threats against Trump, which underscores the rising tide of politically motivated violence in the U.S. (source-5).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that Stinson posted threats shortly after the assassination attempt is corroborated by multiple credible news sources. The timeline of Stinson's posts aligns with the assassination attempt on Trump, suggesting a direct correlation between the two events (source-3, source-4).
However, the reliability of the sources reporting on Stinson's threats varies. While major outlets like CBS News and ABC News provide detailed accounts of the events, other sources, such as the Daily Mail, may have a reputation for sensationalism, which could affect the interpretation of the facts (source-6). It is important to consider the context and potential biases of each source when evaluating the information.
Moreover, while Stinson's statements are indeed concerning, the legal context surrounding his charges and the specifics of his threats should be carefully examined. The language he used, such as wanting to "twist the knife," could be interpreted in various ways, and it is essential to assess whether these statements constitute credible threats or hyperbolic expressions of anger (source-7).
Conclusion
Needs Research: While there is evidence that Peter Stinson made threatening posts shortly after an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the context and interpretation of these threats require further investigation. The reliability of the sources varies, and the nuances of Stinson's statements should be analyzed more deeply to determine the seriousness of the threats. More comprehensive information on Stinson's motivations and the legal proceedings against him would provide a clearer picture of the situation.
Sources
- Suspect in apparent assassination attempt on Trump was near golf course ...
- Attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Florida
- Peter Stinson, Ex-Coast Guard Officer, Charged with Threating to Kill Trump
- Former Coast Guard officer charged with threatening to kill President Trump
- Former Coast Guard lieutenant arrested and charged with ...
- Antifa sharpshooter charged with threatening to kill Trump
- Former Coast Guard officer accused of threatening to assassinate Trump