NINE Convicted in Texas Antifa Terror Attack

A gavel resting on an American flag, symbolizing justice and law

A federal jury has delivered a landmark verdict in the nation’s first antifa domestic terrorism prosecution, convicting nine defendants for an armed Independence Day attack on a Texas ICE detention facility that left a police officer shot and federal property damaged.

Story Highlights

Nine convicted on federal terrorism charges for July 4, 2025 armed attack on Prairieland ICE detention center in Alvarado, Texas
Benjamin Song faces 20 years to life for shooting police Lt. Thomas Gross in the neck during the assault
First successful federal prosecution of antifa-related activities under domestic terrorism statutes establishes legal precedent
Attorney General Bondi vows systematic dismantling of antifa, promises more terrorism prosecutions ahead

Historic Terrorism Convictions Mark New Legal Precedent

The federal jury in Fort Worth reached its verdict on March 14, 2026, after 12 days of trial and approximately 15 hours of deliberation. Eight defendants were convicted of providing material support to terrorists, rioting, conspiring to use explosives, and using explosives during a riot. The ninth defendant, Benjamin Song, was uniquely convicted of attempted murder for shooting Alvarado Police Department Lt. Thomas Gross, who survived and returned to active duty. This marks the first time federal prosecutors successfully charged antifa-related activities as domestic terrorism, establishing a template for future cases.

Armed Assault on Immigration Facility Detailed

On July 4, 2025, the defendants attacked the Prairieland ICE detention center with military-style coordination. Prosecutors presented evidence showing participants brought firearms, body armor, first aid kits, and wore tactical clothing. They ignited fireworks, damaged buildings and vehicles, and fired upon federal officers. Prosecutor Shawn Smith argued the group practiced “antifa tactics” and maintained obsessive operational security, demonstrating this was no spontaneous protest but a planned ambush. Seven additional defendants previously pleaded guilty to providing material support to terrorists, bringing the total number held accountable to sixteen individuals.

Trump Administration Signals Aggressive Prosecution Strategy

Attorney General Pamela Bondi declared the verdict reflects President Trump’s commitment to dismantling antifa operations that flourished in Democrat-led cities during the previous administration. She emphasized this terrorism case will not be the last, signaling systematic federal prosecution of antifa activities nationwide. FBI Director Kash Patel reinforced this stance, stating acts of violence against law enforcement partners will not be tolerated. U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould characterized the incident as terrorist acts, attempted murder, and explosives attacks on a federal detention facility. The aggressive prosecutorial posture represents a stark shift from prior years when antifa violence often went unpunished.

Defense Claims Peaceful Protest, Jury Rejects Narrative

Defense attorneys disputed the terrorism characterization throughout the trial, arguing participants brought firearms solely for self-protection during a peaceful protest. Attorney Cody Cofer claimed the government engaged in fear mongering with its ambush narrative, while Christopher Weinbel expressed disbelief at the verdict. The jury’s mixed verdict acquitted eight defendants on attempted murder charges and Song on some firearm discharge counts, suggesting jurors questioned whether the incident constituted a coordinated ambush targeting specific individuals. However, convictions on rioting and material support charges confirm jurors recognized the activity exceeded constitutional protest protections and involved organized violence with weapons and explosives.

Sentencing Pending as Federal Investigation Continues

Benjamin Song faces a minimum sentence of 20 years to life in prison for his attempted murder conviction and related charges. The remaining eight convicted defendants await sentencing on their terrorism-related convictions at dates to be determined by the judge. Federal prosecutors have indicated investigations continue, with additional antifa-related cases expected. This prosecution establishes critical legal precedent for distinguishing between protected First Amendment expression and criminal terrorism. Law-abiding Americans who support law enforcement and secure borders can finally see accountability for violent extremists who attack federal facilities and officers under the guise of political protest.