by Palm Beach Gardens, FL – A 32-year-old Florida man, recently fired from his job, has been arrested after allegedly posting a series of violent online threats aimed at local churches, warning that his planned attacks would “look like a genocide,” according to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
Fired Worker Accused of Making Violent Online Threats
Authorities say Michael Iaboni was taken into custody after Crime Stoppers received a tip about disturbing social media posts he allegedly made earlier this month. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office affidavit states that Iaboni uploaded multiple videos discussing his job loss and expressing rage toward religious institutions.
In one now-deleted video posted on November 4, Iaboni allegedly declared, “I got fired and I’m fired up.” He then appeared to mimic the sound of gunfire while pretending to hold a rifle.
“It’s all kill shot,” Iaboni allegedly said in the video, before continuing, “I would never take my own life, but I understand the people that I am going to be going after are and could potentially be dangerous.”
Threats Against Christ Fellowship Church
Investigators reported that Iaboni specifically mentioned Christ Fellowship, a large church network in Palm Beach County.
“Christ Fellowship is on my list to hit also,” Iaboni allegedly stated. “My end game is taking you out… It’s not necessarily the people that are yelling that you need to be worried about, it’s the quiet ones. It’s the ones that no longer fear death. I expect death to come fast and very violent. Hopefully I go out fast.”
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Authorities noted that Iaboni lived just 1.5 miles from Christ Fellowship and had recently signed up for a “Journey” event at the church to learn more about its programs. Staff members grew concerned after noticing his behavior and reported his activity to Palm Beach Gardens police.
Police Response and Arrest
Investigators said Iaboni posted another alarming video on November 7, in which he warned that an upcoming event would “look like a genocide.”
Based on these escalating threats, authorities tracked Iaboni down and took him into custody without incident. A search of his online activity confirmed the threatening videos and messages.
He is now charged with written threats to kill or do bodily harm, according to the sheriff’s office. Court records show he is being held on a $250,000 bond at the Palm Beach County Jail.
“The quick action of citizens and church staff likely prevented a potential tragedy,” a law enforcement spokesperson said. “We take all threats against places of worship very seriously.”
Community Alert
The sheriff’s office is urging residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious online activity involving threats of violence, particularly against schools or churches.
Officials have not released any information about possible weapons in Iaboni’s possession, and no injuries were reported in connection with the case.
How do you feel about this case and the growing number of online threats targeting public spaces? Share your thoughts in the comments at mikeandjonpodcast.com.
