UPDATE: Sixteen individuals have been charged in connection with a violent Antifa-led attack on the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, during a chaotic July 4 incident. The Justice Department confirmed this breaking news just moments ago, emphasizing the serious nature of the charges, which include attempted murder and terrorism-related offenses.
Nine alleged members of a North Texas Antifa cell were indicted on Friday, with seven others charged separately for their roles in the attack on law enforcement. Federal prosecutors revealed that the group targeted the facility housing illegal immigrants awaiting deportation, escalating fears about domestic terrorism.
The 12-count indictment names key suspects: Cameron Arnold, Zachary Evetts, Benjamin Song, Savanna Batten, Bradford Morris, Maricela Rueda, Elizabeth Soto, Ines Soto, and Daniel Rolando Sanchez-Estrada. They face a range of serious charges, including rioting with intent to commit violence and using explosives against law enforcement.
In a damning statement, FBI Director Kash Patel declared, “Anyone who targets law enforcement or uses violence to advance an anarchist agenda will face the full weight of the federal government.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to bringing these alleged domestic terrorists to justice.
Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson highlighted the significance of this indictment, calling it “the first in the country against a group of violent Antifa cell members.” The charges reflect a shift in how the Justice Department approaches Antifa, with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi labeling the group a terrorist organization. Bondi stated, “These guilty pleas mark a turning point,” aligning the prosecution of Antifa with that of notorious gangs like MS-13.
According to prosecutors, the attack was meticulously planned. On July 4, eleven suspects, dressed in “black bloc” attire to conceal their identities, stormed the detention center, firing weapons and throwing fireworks at the facility. As they vandalized police vehicles and damaged federal property, an Alvarado police officer responded to the scene, only to be shot in the neck by Benjamin Song, who allegedly led the assault. After fleeing, Song was arrested on July 15.
Authorities reported that the group had obtained over 50 firearms in the Dallas–Fort Worth area prior to the attack. They utilized encrypted messaging apps and devised plans to bring medical kits and explosives, demonstrating a high level of organization and intent.
The nine indicted defendants are scheduled for arraignment in federal court on December 3. As the Justice Department continues its crackdown, the implications of this case extend far beyond Texas, signaling a robust federal response to domestic threats.
Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds.
