Anaheim, California, January 17, 2026

In Anaheim, California, a 22-year-old man, Marco Antonio Aguayo, has been charged with making federal threats against Disneyland via Instagram shortly before Vice President J.D. Vance’s visit. Aguayo allegedly claimed to have placed pipe bombs in the park, raising significant safety concerns. Initially denying the charges, he later admitted they were intended as a joke. If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities treat threats against public officials.

Anaheim Man Charged with Threatening Disneyland Ahead of Vice President Vance’s Visit

Vice President’s Unannounced Trip Sparks Concern

Anaheim, California – A 22-year-old Anaheim resident, Marco Antonio Aguayo, has been charged with making federal threats after allegedly posting alarming messages on Disneyland’s official Instagram page. These threats emerged just as Vice President J.D. Vance was set to visit the theme park in July 2025. This incident underscores increasing concerns surrounding public safety, especially during high-profile visits.

The entrepreneurial spirit often seen in Southern California contrasts sharply with the behavior exhibited by Aguayo. While local businesses work tirelessly to adapt and innovate in a rapidly changing environment, such threats pose significant risks to community safety and the very fabric of public trust.

Details of the Alleged Threats

On July 12, 2025, coinciding with Vice President Vance’s visit, Aguayo reportedly made three threatening posts under the username “@jesses_andamy.” The content of these posts included declarations of having placed pipe bombs in Disneyland and ominous statements about impending violence against politicians. As of January 2026, the Instagram account purportedly used by Aguayo appears to be deleted.

Investigation and Charges

In a swift response to the threats, federal agents visited Aguayo’s residence on the very day the posts were made. Initially, Aguayo denied authorship of the messages, suggesting his account may have been compromised. However, he later conceded to making the posts, claiming they were intended as a joke. This admission raises important questions about accountability in online communications and the serious implications of what some may perceive as humor.

Aguayo has been charged with one count of making threats against the president and successors to the presidency. If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison. This development reflects how seriously authorities treat threats against public officials, reinforcing the need for vigilance in community safety.

Background on the Incident

Vice President Vance’s trip to Disneyland was unanticipated and took place amid heightened emotions surrounding immigration enforcement actions in California. Protests coincided with his visit, reflecting the socio-political climate that influences the community’s interactions with public figures. This incident serves as a reminder that while LA is a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, it also faces challenges that can overshadow its vibrant economy.

Legal Implications

The seriousness of Aguayo’s threats was underscored by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, who emphasized that threats against public officials will not be tolerated. By holding individuals accountable for making anonymous threats online, the justice system aims to maintain a safe environment for both public officials and the public at large.

Related Incidents

This alarming incident follows a pattern of similar threats against public officials across the nation. In January 2026, a separate case involved a man arrested for possessing a large number of explosive devices outside a significant public ceremony in Washington, D.C. These incidents highlight a worrying trend of increased threats that authorities must address to ensure public safety.

Key Takeaways

As the community reflects on this situation, it’s crucial to recognize the balance between engaging in political discourse and ensuring public safety. The vibrant atmosphere of entrepreneurship and community involvement in Los Angeles should not be overshadowed by acts that could destabilize public trust. Residents are encouraged to support local businesses while remaining vigilant about community safety.

Key Features of the Incident

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Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER

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