MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin - In a twist of events that has drawn national attention, local authorities have charged a Milwaukee man with framing an undocumented immigrant for death threats against President Donald Trump, while also raising questions about the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) handling of the case [1][2].

Demetric D. Scott, 52, faces charges of identity theft, bail jumping, and felony intimidation of a witness, according to a criminal complaint filed in Milwaukee County Circuit Court on June 2, 2025 [3]. Prosecutors allege that Scott, who was awaiting trial on separate robbery and battery charges, orchestrated an elaborate scheme to have the key witness in his case, Ramón Morales-Reyes, deported [1][2].

According to the complaint, Scott allegedly wrote a series of letters threatening to assassinate President Trump, using Morales-Reyes' name and return address [1][2]. The plan seemingly worked initially, as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents arrested Morales-Reyes, 54, on May 28, 2025, shortly after he dropped his daughter off at school in Milwaukee [4].

However, Milwaukee police quickly became suspicious of the circumstances surrounding Morales-Reyes' arrest. Within a day, investigators had concluded that Morales-Reyes was likely not responsible for the threatening letters [4]. Despite this, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem publicly accused Morales-Reyes of the crime six days later, on June 3, 2025 [4].

In a press release, Noem stated, "Thanks to our ICE officers, this illegal alien who threatened to assassinate President Trump is behind bars" [2]. This statement came after local law enforcement had already begun to suspect Morales-Reyes' innocence.

The case has sparked controversy, not only due to the alleged framing but also because of the location of Morales-Reyes' arrest. Schools were previously considered "sensitive locations" where immigration arrests were to be avoided, but the Trump administration reversed this guidance in January 2025 [4].

As the investigation unfolded, police reportedly intercepted jail calls in which Scott detailed his plan, including enlisting his mother to mail the threatening letters from her home [3]. Morales-Reyes' attorneys and family have maintained his innocence, citing his limited proficiency in writing English or Spanish [4].

This case highlights the complex intersections of immigration enforcement, criminal justice, and political rhetoric in the United States. As the legal proceedings continue, it serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough investigation and due process in the American justice system.