Federal authorities in Los Angeles have indicted a podcaster on charges of threatening to kill President Donald Trump, cyberstalking, and making harassing interstate calls, according to a grand jury indictment unsealed Thursday.
Benjamin Azariah Southworth, 40, of Los Angeles, was arrested at his home Thursday morning on federal charges that include posting videos calling for Trump’s assassination, publishing the personal contact information of the family of Trump’s personal attorney, and leaving voicemails with threats. The indictment was announced by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli for the Central District of California via a post on X.
Essayli stated in the announcement that ‘threats against the President of the United States are federal crimes’ and emphasized that his office would prosecute such threats to the fullest extent of the law.
Core allegations and timeline
Southworth is accused of making multiple threats against Trump over several months. Court documents cited by prosecutors allege that on April 7, 2026, he posted a video to his Instagram account stating, “I have been vocal in calling for the execution of Donald Trump” and “Kill Donald Trump.” The indictment also references private communications in which Southworth allegedly wrote in January 2026 that “if I could Kill him, I wouldn’t waste the opportunity.”
In addition to the assassination calls, prosecutors allege Southworth targeted the family of Trump’s personal attorney by publishing their home address, phone numbers, and leaving voicemails with the message, ‘justice comes to your door.’ This practice, known as doxxing, is described in court filings as part of a broader harassment campaign.
Background and public profile
Southworth is a former host of The Remix, a syndicated youth reality and music television show featuring Christian artists. In 2008, he publicly identified as gay and became an advocate for LGBTQ rights. He currently produces the Yass, Jesus! podcast, which describes itself as an interfaith and sexuality-affirming comedy show. His website, Holy Menace, lists merchandise including $5 stickers that read “Kill Trump.”
Legal process and next steps
Southworth faces federal charges under statutes addressing threats against the president, cyberstalking, and interstate harassment. The indictment was returned by a grand jury, and his arrest marks the beginning of judicial proceedings. Federal sentencing guidelines for such offenses can include significant prison time, though the specific penalties will depend on the outcome of the case.
Authorities have not publicly detailed Southworth’s response to the charges or any potential defense strategy. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.