FBI agents track down ‘Pittsburgh based individual’ as investigation into threats continues

PITTSBURGH — FBI agents from the Pittsburgh field office tracked and interviewed a “Pittsburgh based individual” cited in a report describing protests and violence in the area leading up to Inauguration Day. According to investigators, there are no related threats in the region leading up to Jan. 20.

Over the weekend, reports emerged that posts across a variety of social media platforms promised protests would take place in cities across the country, including Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City and Columbus, Ohio. On Friday, Twitter posted a statement saying in part, “Plans for future armed protests have already begun proliferating.”

>>>RELATED: Pittsburgh monitoring social media reports of possible protests

Additionally, FBI agents from the Pittsburgh office are still investigating the destructive mob that descended on the U.S. Capitol last week. The agency is accepting tips, pictures and videos of the rioting and violence. The Pittsburgh FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force is taking the lead in any local investigations.

“We are committed to investigating violent behavior and those who are exploiting legitimate, peaceful protests and engaging in violations of federal law,” the agency said in a news release.

Local law enforcement agencies, including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Public Safety, are also monitoring social media posts and reports of possible protests and violence.

Inauguration Day takes place on Wednesday, Jan. 20, when President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris will be sworn into office.

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Cox Media Group