News Summary
Joshua Wayne Cole is set to plead guilty to making online threats regarding a shooting at an upcoming LGBTQ+ parade in Abilene, Texas. Cole’s alarming comments surfaced just days before the Abilene Pride event, prompting law enforcement intervention. Following his arrest after a traffic stop, Cole expressed intent to harm parade attendees while attributing his threats to a violent reaction over the murder of a conservative activist. With prior legal troubles, his case has raised concerns regarding community safety and the impacts of threatening behavior.
Joshua Wayne Cole Faces Serious Charges Over Threats to Abilene LGBTQ+ Parade
The story of Joshua Wayne Cole brings chilling news from Texas. This man has agreed to plead guilty to making **_online threats_** regarding a shooting at an upcoming LGBTQ+ parade in Abilene, Texas. The threats stemmed from what Cole termed a supposed act of vengeance for the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
What’s the Background?
On September 18, authorities began investigating Cole after individuals preparing for the **_Abilene Pride parade_** reported his **_violent Facebook posts_**. The **_pride event_** was set to happen just two days later on September 20. Notably, the tensions in the country were high following the recent death of Kirk on September 10 at Utah Valley University.
Details of the Online Threats
Cole’s online comments were particularly alarming. Following a message discussing a ban on weapons at the event, he claimed it was best to “lock and load” and get “payback” for Kirk’s murder. He even suggested a group effort to threaten the parade attendees, calling them “fairies” and stating there were only about 30 participants, implying they could easily send a message.
Legal Consequences Await
On October 16, a hearing for Cole’s guilty plea is tentatively scheduled. He has signed federal court documents expressing his intention to plead guilty to a serious charge of **_interstate threatening communications_**. If convicted, he could face up to five years in prison, although it’s noteworthy that **_guilty pleas often lead to lesser sentences_**.
Plea and Arrest Updates
Cole was arrested after a tense encounter that included a police traffic stop. He admitted to making the threatening comments and asserted that he thought the pride event should not proceed. After his arrest, he was detained without bail and later reassigned to another agency.
Community Safety Concerns
In light of Cole’s threatening behavior, the **_Abilene Pride Alliance_** sought extra security for their event, and **_local McMurry University_** canceled its participation due to safety concerns. It’s worth noting that authorities had ramped up their investigation into Cole’s threats following the rising tensions across the U.S. post-Kirk’s death.
Prior Criminal History
This isn’t Cole’s first brush with the law. He has a prior criminal record involving **_making terroristic threats in 2019_**, along with earlier charges related to harmful material to minors and **_occupational license violations_**. His defense attorney, meanwhile, has not responded to inquiries regarding his case.
Conclusion
The unfolding events serve as a stark reminder of the serious implications of making threats online and the potential repercussions on community safety. As authorities continue to navigate this case leading up to Cole’s plea hearing, the Abilene community hopes to move forward while ensuring the safety of all its residents, especially in the upcoming pride events.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The Guardian: Texas Man Threatens Pride Event
- Reporter News: Man Threatened Gun Violence at Abilene Pride Parade
- Dallas Voice: Abilene Area Man Arrested for Threatening Pride Parade
- Wikipedia: Interstate Threatening Communications
- Google Search: Abilene Pride Parade
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
