3 University of South Alabama students charged over alleged Trump threats on social media

Three University of South Alabama students face federal charges for alleged social media threats against President Donald Trump before his campaign rally at the Mobile campus. Amare Woods, Cameron Lewis, and Kayla Smith were arrested Friday, October 2, in separate, unconnected investigations. The FBI discovered the alleged posts during a social media intelligence search ahead of Trump's visit. Woods, 18, allegedly commented "he gotta die bro" on TikTok; Lewis allegedly made two posts on X referencing fatal shootings; Smith allegedly wrote "We only got one chance let's take it" with a firearm image. Woods' lawyer argues the comment was poor taste, not a real threat. The University of South Alabama condemned the threats while emphasizing free speech. Trump's rally proceeded as planned Friday evening. The students face detention hearings Monday, October 5, and the allegations have not been proven in court.