North Carolina Woman Charged in Conspiracy to Attack Houston Synagogue

Angelina Han Hicks, an 18-year-old from Lexington, North Carolina, has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder and assault against members of Congregation Beth Israel, a Reform synagogue in Houston, Texas. According to court documents, Hicks allegedly conspired with two unidentified men to carry out an attack aimed at "killing as many Jews as possible by driving through a congregation." Hicks was arrested on Wednesday and is currently held in Davidson County jail with a bond set at $10 million. The planned attack is reportedly scheduled for April 21, 2028.

Times of Israel

In light of the threats, Congregation Beth Israel and the Shlenker School, which serves as a preschool and elementary school, opted to close their campuses as a precautionary measure. The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston stated that, following discussions with the FBI and Houston Police Department (HPD), it was deemed safe for other local Jewish institutions to remain open. Local law enforcement has increased patrols around Jewish sites in the Houston area to ensure safety.

Times of Israel

District Court Judge Carlton Terry emphasized the necessity of Hicks' detention, noting that the other suspects remain at large, which poses a risk of communication that could endanger lives. The motive behind the planned attack has not been disclosed in the court documents. Senior Assistant District Attorney Alan Martin expressed uncertainty regarding why Congregation Beth Israel, located over 1,000 miles from Hicks' residence, was specifically targeted.

Times of Israel

The incident occurs amid heightened concerns regarding threats to Jewish communities globally, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the recent surge in antisemitic attacks in the United States. These attacks have been linked to rising tensions following the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre in southern Israel, which ignited the current war in Gaza. Security experts have warned of an increase in threats against Jewish institutions, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Times of Israel

Hicks' court-appointed attorney, Chad Freeman, indicated that the case is in its early stages and that Hicks' youth may influence her defense strategy. Freeman plans to involve various experts to examine investigatory and forensic matters related to the case. Hicks' next court hearing is scheduled for May 13, 2026.

Times of Israel

The Jewish community has expressed concern over the targeting of their institutions, with calls for clear condemnation of such actions. The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston has reiterated the importance of community safety and vigilance in the face of rising antisemitism.

Times of Israel

• “Allowing a co-conspirator a chance to communicate with either of those individuals or those who could relay a message puts lives at risk,” — Judge Carlton Terry

Times of Israel

• “Martin said Thursday, “At this point, I have no idea” why Congregation Beth Israel — over 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) from Lexington — would have been targeted.” — Alan Martin, Senior Assistant District Attorney

Times of Israel

• “I anticipate getting numerous experts involved in the case to look at both investigatory and possible forensic matters,” — Chad Freeman, Hicks' Attorney

Times of Israel