BREAKING: Sixteen individuals have been charged following a violent attack by an alleged Antifa cell on a federal immigration detention center in Alvarado, Texas, on July 4. The U.S. Department of Justice announced the indictments today, detailing a coordinated assault that targeted the Prairieland Detention Center, which houses undocumented immigrants awaiting deportation.
Among those indicted are nine members of the North Texas Antifa group, including Cameron Arnold, Zachary Evetts, and Benjamin Song, who is described as the cell’s leader. They face a range of serious charges, including attempted murder of a police officer, rioting with intent to commit violence, and conspiracy to use explosives. Seven additional suspects have been charged with providing material support to terrorists, highlighting the extensive nature of this operation.
The 12-count indictment reveals that on the day of the attack, the group arrived dressed in “black bloc” clothing, hiding their identities as they initiated violence against the facility. They reportedly fired weapons and launched fireworks at the building, causing significant damage. When a police officer responded, they opened fire, striking the officer in the neck. This alarming act of violence has raised concerns about domestic terrorism and the escalating nature of Antifa-related activities.
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the seriousness of these charges, stating, “Anyone who targets law enforcement or uses violence to advance an anarchist agenda will face the full weight of the federal government.” He labeled the group as domestic terrorists, asserting that under President Trump’s leadership, law enforcement is committed to bringing them to justice.
Acting U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson described this indictment as “the first in the country against a group of violent Antifa cell members.” Prosecutors argue that this cell is part of a larger militant network aiming to disrupt and overthrow the U.S. government. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed this sentiment, declaring, “Antifa is a terrorist organization,” and noted that these charges mark a turning point in how the Justice Department addresses such groups.
In a shocking twist, authorities revealed that the group had acquired over 50 firearms in the Dallas–Fort Worth area prior to the attack. Prosecutors highlighted their use of encrypted messaging apps to plan and coordinate their actions while employing tactics to conceal their identities.
The nine indicted individuals are scheduled for arraignment in federal court on December 3. As this situation develops, community members are left grappling with the implications of such violence and the potential for future incidents. This case is poised to set a precedent in the ongoing battle against domestic terrorism and extremist groups in the United States.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
