WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 18: U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the COVID-19 response and the vaccination program in the East Room of the White House on August 18, 2021 in Washington, DC. During his remarks, President Biden announced that he is ordering the United States Department of Health and Human Services to require nursing homes to have vaccinated staff in order for them to receive Medicare and Medicaid funding. The President also announced that Americans would be able to receive a third booster shot against Covid-19. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)
The Secret Service has initiated an investigation into actor John Schneider after his now-deleted post that called for the hanging of the president, accused him of treason and claimed Biden targeted his son, who currently faces criminal charges.
Schneider, known for his roles in The Dukes of Hazzard and Smallville, made the controversial comments shortly after the Season 10 finale of The Masked Singer, where he participated as a contestant.
The Secret Service, which is responsible for the safety of the president, vice president and their families, as well as high-ranking government officials and political candidates, has taken the statements seriously and launched an inquiry into the matter. The agency, which operates under the Department of Homeland Security, typically does not comment on current investigations related to protective intelligence.
However, they have confirmed that they investigate all threats that concern their protectees, and include any potential threat against the president.
Schneider has since denied any explicit threats against Biden and emphasized that his comments were taken out of context.
He stated that he intended to express his belief that some leaders in Washington have lost their way and that corruption is prevalent both domestically and internationally.
According to Schneider, his remarks were meant to highlight the need for transparency and accountability to preserve the constitutional republic, and he did not imply any act of violence or make direct threats against the president.
The White House has not commented on the investigation. If a credible threat against the president is determined, it would be considered a federal Class D felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a substantial fine. Sentences may also include restrictions on internet usage and a period of supervised release. Proven intent and perception of the statement as a genuine threat would be necessary for prosecution under the law.
Schneider has faced personal and legal challenges in the past. He was a contestant on Dancing with the Stars in 2018 and served a short jail sentence when he failed to pay alimony to his ex-wife.
His third wife and manager, Alicia Allain, died from breast cancer in February.
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