Rep. Jared Moskowitz says authorities investigating potential plot against his life after arrest of armed man

Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Democrat from Florida, revealed on Friday that local authorities had informed him of a potential threat against his life. The warning came after the arrest of an armed individual near his home, and authorities are now investigating the matter.

In a statement, Moskowitz explained that the Margate Police Department, which operates in his district, had notified him the day before the election about a “potential plot” targeting him. He said that the suspect, a former felon named John Lapinski, was apprehended with a rifle, a suppressor, body armor, and a manifesto that contained antisemitic statements. Notably, the document listed only Moskowitz’s name as a “target,” a detail that deeply concerned the congressman, who is Jewish.

Moskowitz did not provide further specifics on the investigation to avoid interfering with the ongoing legal process. However, he made clear that the situation was alarming, especially given the violent nature of the items found with the suspect.

The Margate Police Department’s statement confirmed the arrest of 41-year-old Lapinski on November 2. He was charged with “possession of a firearm by a convicted felon,” along with other related firearm offenses. The police also found additional firearms and other evidence suggesting that Lapinski may have been planning a violent act, although the police did not mention Moskowitz by name in their report.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is currently leading the investigation into the case. Authorities are working to determine the full extent of the threat and any possible connections the suspect may have had to broader extremist ideologies or violent plans. CNN has not been able to identify an attorney representing Lapinski, and the ATF, along with other federal agencies such as the US Capitol Police and the FBI, have declined to comment.

Moskowitz, who was reelected to represent Florida’s 23rd Congressional District in Tuesday’s elections, expressed deep concern over the security of members of Congress. In his statement, he highlighted the need for increased safety measures, especially for those representing constituents outside Washington, D.C. He said, “As someone who was appointed to the Task Force on the Attempted Assassination of Donald J. Trump, I understand the failures and importance of improving protection for the President and Vice President.” However, Moskowitz also voiced his worry that there is a significant lack of protection for members of Congress, particularly when they are back in their home districts.

“Regardless of our political affiliations or differences, we all have families we want to keep safe,” he said, underscoring the bipartisan nature of concerns about lawmakers’ safety.

The congressman’s comments come at a time when the issue of safety for public officials has become a growing concern across the U.S. Lawmakers in both parties have faced increasing threats in recent years, particularly as political rhetoric has grown more heated. While the security of high-profile figures such as the President and Vice President is closely guarded, local law enforcement and other agencies have struggled to provide similar protection for members of Congress.

Moskowitz’s experience highlights the very real dangers that elected officials face in the current political climate. The arrest of Lapinski, with his apparent intentions to harm the congressman, serves as a stark reminder of the volatile environment that many public servants must navigate daily. In the wake of the attack on Rep. Steve Scalise in 2017, and more recent threats to lawmakers, the need for comprehensive security measures has never been more urgent.

As the investigation into the alleged plot continues, Moskowitz’s situation has sparked renewed conversations about how best to protect elected officials from violence. For now, the congressman’s focus remains on ensuring his own safety, as well as advocating for the safety of all members of Congress, regardless of party affiliation. The incident also raises important questions about the role of law enforcement in preventing such threats before they escalate, and how government agencies can improve coordination to safeguard public figures.

Moskowitz’s experience serves as an unfortunate but necessary reminder of the risks that come with public service, and the ongoing need for improved security measures for those who serve in elected office.