Dennis Man Convicted for Threatening to Burn House, Tar and Feather State Rep. Xiarhos over “Trumpism”
BARNSTABLE, MASSACHUSETTS – A 63-year-old Dennis resident has been convicted of threatening to commit arson against State Representative Steve Xiarhos after posting a menacing message on social media railing against “Trumpism,” according to a statement from Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert J. Galibois.
James Spence was found guilty by a Barnstable District Court jury on November 12, 2025, following a trial over a February 25 social media post that targeted Xiarhos. The Barnstable Police Department flagged the threat, which read: “Tell your tyrant to reel it in or the people will burn your house, office and tar and feather you in the streets of Hyannis. I will not support you or your Trumpism. This is a warning of what the people are saying.”
Investigators linked the post to Spence via his username and profile image. When questioned, Spence reportedly admitted to authoring the message, leading to his arrest and charge of threat to commit a crime (arson).
Prosecutors, led by Assistant District Attorney Jessica Dusenberry and Victim/Witness Assistant Madison Crapo, pushed for the maximum six-month jail sentence. The court instead handed down a six-month house of correction term, suspended for 18 months, along with orders for Spence to avoid all contact with Xiarhos and attend mental health counseling.
Xiarhos, reflecting on the ordeal, stated: “I would like to thank District Attorney Galibois and his highly competent staff for their assistance. I am pleased that justice has been served in the form of a conviction and I am looking forward to moving on from this very disturbing incident.”
Cape & Islands District Attorney Robert J. Galibois praised the investigative team and underscored the broader implications: “Public officials, regardless of their political affiliation, should be able to carry out their duties without fear for their safety or that of their families. Our office remains committed to protecting every member of this community including those elected to represent our residents from acts of violence, threats and intimidation.”
The case highlights growing concerns over online threats amid heated political discourse, with authorities vowing to hold perpetrators accountable.
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