Overview

• Joshua Cole of Anson, Texas, was arrested by the FBI after posts under the alias "Jay Dubya" urged people to "lock and load" at the Abilene Pride Parade and Festival.
• During a police stop, Cole admitted writing the comments and owning a firearm, said he opposed Pride events, and denied intending to shoot anyone.
• A federal judge ordered him held after an initial release from the Taylor County Jail, citing the strength of the evidence, a 2019 terroristic‑threat arrest, and danger to the community.
• FBI Special Agent Samuel C. Venuti wrote that the threats were not conditional or joking and were posted nine days after Charlie Kirk was killed in Utah.
• Abilene Pride Alliance said the Sept. 20 event proceeded with enhanced security, credited swift action by local and federal partners, and reported more than $4,000 in donations for safety measures.