A recently unsealed FBI affidavit detailing the radicalization of Thomas Sanford, the 2023 Michigan church shooter who injured a visiting pastor, is igniting a political dispute over the influence of extremist ideologies. The documents reveal Sanford’s deep immersion in online spaces frequented by adherents of the “MAGA” political movement and conspiracy theories, prompting accusations of a link between right-wing extremism and the attack.
The shooting, which occurred on february 24, 2023, at the First Presbyterian Church in Lansing, Michigan, left Pastor Jeremy Shaver with a gunshot wound to the neck. Sanford, 27, was sentenced in July 2024 to 10-15 years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted murder and aggravated assault. The newly released affidavit provides a detailed account of Sanford’s escalating radicalization, raising questions about the role of online echo chambers in fostering violent extremism and the potential for similar incidents. The case is now fueling debate over the duty of social media platforms and political figures in addressing the spread of extremist content.
According to the affidavit, Sanford’s online activity demonstrated a growing obsession with former President Donald Trump, QAnon conspiracy theories, and anti-government rhetoric. investigators found evidence of Sanford repeatedly viewing content promoting violence against perceived enemies,including Democrats and liberals. He frequented websites and social media groups known for harboring extremist views, and his online posts mirrored language and narratives commonly used by “MAGA” supporters and far-right activists.
The affidavit details Sanford’s attempts to purchase firearms and his research into potential targets, ultimately selecting the Lansing church due to it’s progressive stance on social issues. Prior to the shooting, Sanford had been banned from several online platforms for violating their terms of service, but continued to access extremist content through alternative channels.
The release of the affidavit has drawn sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers and gun control advocates, who argue it underscores the dangers of right-wing extremism. Representative Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), who previously served as a CIA officer, stated the case “demonstrates the very real threat of politically motivated violence” and called for increased efforts to counter extremist ideologies. Conversely, Republican officials have cautioned against broadly associating the ”MAGA” movement with violence, arguing that the vast majority of Trump supporters are law-abiding citizens. They contend that Sanford’s actions were those of a disturbed individual and should not be used to demonize an entire political group.
The FBI continues to investigate potential connections between Sanford and other extremist groups. The case remains a focal point in the ongoing national conversation about the rise of domestic terrorism and the challenges of preventing violent extremism in the digital age. Further legal proceedings and potential policy changes are anticipated as the implications of the affidavit are fully assessed.
