YouTuber Brandon Tatum steps in to protect YouTuber Nick Shirley after death threats over Minnesota fraud video (Image via Getty)
Brandon Tatum says he stepped in to protect Nick Shirley after the YouTuber said he started getting death threats. Tatum explained his reason in simple words: “Exposing fraud shouldn’t come with death threats.” The issue began after Nick Shirley shared a long video about an alleged fraud case linked to daycare centers in Minnesota. After the video went live in late December 2025, Shirley said the reaction turned scary. He claimed people began sending threats, and he feared for his safety and his family.Shirley later revealed that he could not afford full-time security on his own. That is when Brandon Tatum, also known online as Officer Tatum, stepped in. Tatum said free speech should not put anyone’s life at risk. He also shared a donation link to help cover security costs. Nick Shirley spoke about these threats on podcasts and social media, saying the pressure has been heavy and constant.
Brandon Tatum explains why he is protecting Nick Shirley after death threats
Nick Shirley spoke openly about the threats during his appearance on the Modern Wisdom podcast with host Chris Williamson, released on January 10, 2026. He said he now has security with him all day and at his home. Shirley explained,“Right now, I have somebody with me 24/7. I have somebody at the house as well. Super expensive, and as a YouTuber, I do not make enough money to afford it.”He added that Brandon Tatum helped through a nonprofit security effort, saying people could donate to support safety needs.On January 13, 2026, Brandon Tatum reposted a clip and wrote,“I stepped in to help protect Nick Shirley because exposing fraud shouldn’t come with death threats. When truth-tellers are forced to pay for 24/7 security just to stay alive, that is a problem.”This was not the first time Shirley spoke about the threats. On a podcast with Patrick Bet-David, he said people warned he could be “kirked,” a reference to the killing of Charlie Kirk, who was shot at Utah Valley University in September 2025, according to police reports.Shirley said his family was also affected.“I feel bad for my family, honestly. My little sister is getting phone calls, and we did nothing wrong.”Tatum later repeated on The Officer Tatum Show that people should be able to speak without fear, saying telling the truth should never be a death sentence.In related political news, Tim Walz announced on January 5, 2026, that he would not seek re-election, according to state reports. Shirley reacted online, claiming his reporting played a role.Also Read: YouTuber LabCoatz Claims He Cracked Coca Cola Recipe After Year Long Science Testing Surprises Fans Worldwide