politics
Federal arrests made in foiled plot targeting UFC event at White House
Law enforcement officials arrested five people and identified 14 of 26 usernames tied to an alleged plan to attack an event at the White House. The investigation began after a local tip and continued under seal until details appeared on social media.
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Federal authorities arrested five people in connection with an alleged plot to attack a UFC event at the White House, according to law enforcement officials. Officials said the investigation began after a mother contacted local police about her son's behavior.
The five arrested face federal charges. They are identified as 19-year-old Tycen Proper, 24-year-old Bryan Omar Roa, 32-year-old Michael Alan Thomas, 32-year-old Daniel Eskridge, and 31-year-old Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez. Officials said 14 of 26 usernames under investigation have been identified.
Investigation details Court documents show the probe started June 10 when Knox County Sheriff's Office and Danville Police Department officers visited Proper's home. Proper was taken into custody at a mental health center and later interviewed by the FBI.
Officials said suspects discussed using explosive-laden drones on the South Lawn and firing at fleeing attendees. By Friday, another suspect told the FBI the group had canceled attack plans.
Public disclosure FBI Director Kash Patel posted details of the arrests on social media Tuesday morning. Three law enforcement officials said the disclosure surprised some agents because interviews were still underway and the case remained under seal.
Secret Service Deputy Director Matt Quinn said the agency led the investigation from the beginning and chose not to release information to protect its integrity. A joint FBI and Secret Service statement described the effort as collaborative. Patel had previously filed a $250 million lawsuit against The Atlantic over a story about his drinking habits.
