Vice President JD Vance has sadly become familiar with threats against his life and his family since taking office as the 50th vice president of the United States. Being in public service is one thing—being targeted repeatedly is another. And the latest case shows just how dark some of these situations can get.

One of the most recent incidents has now resulted in federal charges against an Ohio man, adding yet another reminder that the threats aimed at top officials are not just empty words typed online. There is also an unsettling twist tied to the case, making it far more serious than simple political ranting.

The suspect, Mathre, made his initial court appearance Friday in the Northern District of Ohio. A detention hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, as federal authorities move forward with the case.

If convicted, Mathre faces heavy penalties. For threatening the life of the vice president, he could receive up to five years in prison and a maximum statutory fine of $250,000. On top of that, he is also charged with a CSAM offense, which carries an even steeper potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison and another possible $250,000 fine.

This case highlights a harsh truth: the threats against America’s leaders are real, and some of the people making them are far more dangerous than they appear at first glance. Vice President Vance and his family should never have to live under that kind of pressure simply for serving their country.

The silver lining is that federal authorities are taking these threats seriously and holding offenders accountable. Justice is moving forward, the system is working, and the message is clear—targeting American leaders will not be tolerated. And that’s exactly how it should be.