An Erie man is facing a federal charge after authorities accused him of posting antisemitic threats on social media, including one encouraging armed violence at a synagogue.
Eric Holman was arrested Wednesday and charged with transmitting communications in interstate commerce containing threats to injure another person.
According to an FBI affidavit, Holman allegedly used an account on X to threaten members of the Jewish community between April and June.
In one post, Holman allegedly wrote, “Instead of posting online, grab a firearm and go do something. I’m making plans, what are the rest of you doing?”
Four days later, he allegedly posted, “Get a gun, wear black, go to your local synagogue.”
The FBI began investigating after receiving an online tip June 10. Investigators said records obtained from X, Google and an internet service provider connected the account to Holman.
During an August 5 interview, Holman allegedly acknowledged publishing the four posts cited in the complaint. Asked whether he might have acted on the threats if he had been near a synagogue with a rifle in his vehicle, Holman reportedly said, “I’m going to be honest, I don’t know.”
Holman also provided a written statement apologizing for the posts and saying he would never act on them.
Agents searching his residence reportedly recovered a firearm, a notebook containing what the FBI characterized as possible end-of-life planning and a cellphone containing a photograph of a swastika.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh said the case reflects a broader escalation from antisemitic rhetoric to targeted threats of violence.
“Threats targeting people for their Jewish identity will not go unanswered,” Community Security Director Shawn Brokos said while thanking the FBI for its investigation.
Holman is being held temporarily. A detention hearing and preliminary examination are scheduled for August 11 at 2:30 p.m.