Full Breakdown
Convictions in Landmark Antifa-Related Domestic Terrorism Case
3/15/2026, 1:21:07 PM
Overview of the Case
On March 13, 2026, a federal jury in Fort Worth, Texas, convicted nine individuals associated with a North Texas Antifa cell for their involvement in a violent attack on the Prairieland Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Center on July 4, 2025. The defendants faced multiple charges, including providing material support to terrorists, rioting, conspiracy to use and carry explosives, and attempted murder. This case marks the first federal indictment involving Antifa-related domestic terrorism charges since the Trump administration designated Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
Details of the Attack
The attack occurred during a protest that escalated into violence, resulting in the non-fatal shooting of Alvarado Police Lieutenant Thomas Gross. Prosecutors argued that the defendants, dressed in black tactical gear, planned an ambush, using fireworks to distract security before opening fire. Evidence presented during the trial included surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and communications among the defendants, which indicated premeditated actions aimed at confronting law enforcement.
Jury Verdicts
The jury delivered a mixed verdict, convicting eight of the nine defendants on various charges. Benjamin Song, identified as the alleged ringleader, was found guilty of attempted murder for shooting Lt. Gross. The other defendants—Cameron Arnold, Zachary Evetts, Savanna Batten, Bradford Morris, Maricela Rueda, Elizabeth Soto, and Ines Soto—were convicted of providing material support to terrorists and related charges. Daniel Rolando Sanchez Estrada was convicted of corruptly concealing documents. Sentencing for the defendants is pending, with Song facing a minimum of 20 years and the others up to 60 years in prison.
Official Statements
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated, “Antifa is a domestic terrorist organization that has been allowed to flourish in Democrat-led cities — not under President Trump.” She emphasized that the verdicts reflect the administration's commitment to dismantling Antifa and holding accountable those who engage in violence. ICE Director Todd Lyons described the attack as an "abhorrent way for antifa terrorists to 'protest'" and expressed satisfaction with the jury's decision.
Defense Perspectives
Defense attorneys argued that the defendants intended to participate in a peaceful protest rather than a violent ambush. They contended that the government failed to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt and highlighted the lack of direct evidence linking all defendants to the violent actions. Some defense lawyers claimed their clients were being prosecuted for their political beliefs, asserting that the materials found in their possession were not illegal.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the prosecution have raised concerns about the implications of labeling the defendants as terrorists, arguing that it sets a dangerous precedent for the criminalization of political dissent. Defense attorney Cody Cofer expressed intentions to appeal the verdict, suggesting that the jury's decisions may have resulted from a compromise during deliberations.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the prosecution presented a narrative of a coordinated attack, defense attorneys maintained that the event was mischaracterized as an ambush. The trial highlighted discrepancies in the portrayal of the defendants' intentions, with some witnesses testifying to the peaceful nature of the protest, contrasting sharply with the government's depiction of a violent conspiracy.
What's Next
Sentencing hearings for the convicted defendants are expected to take place soon, with the outcomes likely influencing future cases involving alleged domestic terrorism linked to political protests. The case has drawn national attention and may shape how similar incidents are prosecuted in the future.
