A 37-year-old man from Pennsylvania has been arrested and federally charged for allegedly making repeated threats to kill former Vice President and current presidential candidate Kamala Harris, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Steven Alexander Hartford was indicted last week by a federal grand jury on two counts of threatening a major presidential candidate. Prosecutors say Hartford made multiple violent threats directed at Harris via TikTok, where he controlled the account “thealex13one13.” The threats allegedly began in the summer of 2024.
According to the indictment, Hartford’s first threat came on July 21, 2024, in response to a 17-second Daily Mail video asking, “Will Kamala Harris be the next Democratic nominee?” Under that post, Hartford allegedly commented: “I will assassinate her if she runs for pres.”
Just minutes later, Hartford reportedly responded to another video featuring Harris, also posted by the Daily Mail, with a direct threat: “I will assassinate her.”
The following day, Hartford allegedly posted additional violent messages, including: “22 250 coming her way,” “5.56 for her,” and “5.56 waiting for her” — apparent references to rifle ammunition, specifically .22-250 and 5.56mm rounds commonly used in high-powered and military-style firearms.
Federal Case Part of Larger DOJ Crackdown
The case is part of “Operation Take Back America,” a Department of Justice initiative aimed at combating violent crime, dismantling criminal networks, and protecting public officials. The initiative brings together resources from the DOJ’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
If convicted, Hartford faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each count, along with potential fines, supervised release, and other penalties.
Hartford pleaded not guilty to both charges during his initial court appearance on Monday.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab allowed Hartford to be released from custody under strict conditions, including surrendering his passport, remaining within the Middle District of Pennsylvania, refraining from firearm possession, and enrolling in a substance abuse treatment program.
Hartford’s trial is scheduled to take place before U.S. District Judge Julia K. Munley, a Biden appointee.Tools
