Edgar Michael Pelfrey, a Josephine County resident and current member of the Grants Pass City Budget Committee, is once again at the center of controversy—this time drawing potential federal scrutiny. Known throughout the community for his erratic behavior, divisive rhetoric, and a history of harassing neighbors and stoking political discord, Pelfrey has now escalated his conduct with a series of alarming social media posts. The content of these posts appears to call for the death and hanging of former President Barack Obama, prompting serious concern among residents and raising the possibility of federal investigation.
The situation escalated after a concerned citizen came across Pelfrey’s inflammatory content circulating not only on social media, but also through other online platforms. These threats, described as part of a larger pattern of dangerous rhetoric, were immediately reported to federal authorities. The individual who brought this to light requested anonymity, citing legitimate fears of retaliation, and has since submitted the relevant materials to the United States Secret Service’s Portland field office. According to that source, the threats were not a one-off rant, but rather part of a sustained and deliberate campaign promoting violence against a former U.S. president—behavior that squarely violates federal law.
In the days prior to the Secret Service’s involvement, the same concerned resident attempted to alert a number of local and regional authorities. The League of Oregon Cities was contacted first, but responded that it had no jurisdiction over matters of this nature and provided no further assistance. On July 28, emails were sent to individuals known to be Facebook associates of Pelfrey with political ties to the City of Grants Pass, including City Councilor Erich Schloegl, County Commissioner Chris Barnett, and City Council Member Indra Nicholas. No responses were received. A formal tip was submitted to the Grants Pass Police Department tip line via email on July 29, which also went unanswered. The following day, physical color copies of Pelfrey’s threatening content (see image below) were hand-delivered to the City Manager and Mayor’s Office, again without any acknowledgment or response from city leadership.
Frustrated by the inaction, the citizen turned to the FBI’s online reporting system. That report, filed anonymously on July 29, was forwarded to the Secret Service. On July 31, the agency contacted the citizen directly, requesting documentation, screenshots, and further evidence—which were immediately sent to their Portland office. At the time of this report, no other media organizations had been contacted, and the Grants Pass Tribune was the first to verify and publish the details of this developing situation.
Pelfrey is no stranger to controversy in Josephine County. His name appears in multiple police reports and complaints over the years, ranging from harassment to trespassing. Local businesses have banned him from their premises, while residents report having communist flags placed on their lawns and storefronts in what they describe as intimidation tactics. He has been previously sued for defamation and is reportedly facing additional lawsuits stemming from more recent online attacks.
While some might argue that provocative speech is protected by the First Amendment, there is a clear legal distinction when that speech becomes a credible threat. Under 18 U.S. Code § 879, it is a federal crime to knowingly and willfully threaten a former president, and those found guilty may face up to five years in federal prison. These laws exist not to silence dissenting opinions, but to safeguard public safety and prevent incitement to violence. Whether or not Pelfrey intended to act on his words is irrelevant under the law. What matters is whether a reasonable person would interpret those statements as serious expressions of intent to harm.
This newspaper is now working with those who have firsthand knowledge of the threats and digital evidence. We are cooperating with federal authorities to ensure that all relevant materials are preserved and reviewed. If you are aware of or have encountered similar threats made by Michael Pelfrey—whether in digital form, video, or email—we urge you to contact our newsroom. Your identity will remain confidential, but your information could be vital to ensuring that this matter is thoroughly investigated.
Pelfrey may believe his behavior is some form of performance art or political theater, but when that behavior crosses into threats of violence against a former U.S. president, it becomes a national security issue. Regardless of who one supports politically, the deliberate targeting of any human life is despicable, dangerous, and indefensible. There is no place for it in a civilized society.
The Secret Service is now investigating. We will continue to report developments as this story unfolds.
