A librarian from Ripley, West Virginia, was arrested after allegedly using social media to attempt to recruit people to assassinate President Donald Trump. Morgan L. Morrow, a 39-year-old employee at the Jackson County Public Library, has been charged with making a terroristic threat.
The incident reportedly came to light after Morrow posted a video on her Instagram account that raised significant alarm.
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department released a statement revealing that the librarian had used social media to encourage individuals to take action against the president.
The department emphasized that the investigation is still ongoing, and more information will be provided as the facts are gathered. Sheriff RH Mellinger clarified that this is not a politically motivated statement but rather an active criminal inquiry.
Library responds to employee's arrest
In response to Morrow's actions, the Jackson County Public Library issued a statement distancing itself from the comments made by their employee. The library emphasized that the views expressed in the video do not reflect its mission, values, or standards of conduct.
The organization reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and respect and vowed to address the matter internally according to established policies.
Morrow's post, which included a caption about a sniper, caused widespread concern. In the video, she reportedly suggested that a "sniper with a terminal illness" should target the president.
In the comments section, additional people proposed further violence against other notable figures. The investigation has raised questions about the growing issue of violent rhetoric on social media, especially among certain groups.
Legal implications and broader concerns
The case has drawn attention to the dangers of online threats and the ease with which violent ideas can spread through digital platforms. Legal experts have pointed out that the federal charge of making a terroristic threat carries serious consequences, and the case will likely be monitored closely as it progresses.
While political tensions in the country continue to rise, incidents like this highlight the need for careful scrutiny of online behaviors and the legal boundaries surrounding such threats.
As of now, no additional statements have been made from either Jackson County Public Library or the Department of Homeland Security.