By: Richard L. Smith
A Trenton man has been sentenced to 15 months in federal prison after admitting to posting a violent threat online aimed at members of the white community, according to information released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Joshua Cobb, 24, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to a charge of transmitting a threat in interstate commerce. The sentencing was handed down by U.S. District Judge Robert Kirsch in Trenton federal court.
Federal authorities said that on December 17, 2022, Cobb used a social media platform to post a lengthy and disturbing message detailing his intent to carry out a mass shooting targeting white individuals.
In the post, Cobb expressed racial hostility, discussed specific plans, and claimed to have already acquired firearms and selected a location for the attack.
He threatened to carry out the act in New Jersey near a significant cultural holiday.
According to information released by the U.S. Department of Justice, Cobb stated his desire to “cause mayhem” and “erase” as many white people as possible, going so far as to describe the types of weapons he would use and how he would evade capture after the attack. He also threatened to end his life following the violence.
Law enforcement took the threat seriously and launched an immediate investigation, leading to Cobb’s arrest and prosecution.
In addition to the prison term, Cobb will face supervised release following his incarceration.
The case serves as a reminder of the federal government’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting online threats of violence, particularly those motivated by race or aimed at inciting mass harm.
The U.S. Department of Justice emphasized that threats of this nature are not protected speech and will be met with strong legal consequences.