New Federal Charges Reveal Details of Alleged Drone Plot Targeting White House UFC Event

Federal prosecutors have charged Jordan Rincker and William Lee Spartacus Falkner with conspiring to use drones against a UFC fight at the White House. The indictment alleges discussions about rigging drones with explosives, acquiring equipment that can carry at least 12 pounds, and coordinating control of more than 40 unmanned aerial systems. The charges follow earlier arrests announced by FBI Director Kash Patel.

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Jordan Rincker allegedly gave a shotgun, computer and 3D printer to alleged leader Abraham Alvarez in exchange for money, claiming he lacked drone expertise and had no explosives. William Lee Spartacus Falkner is accused of steering discussions on drone procurement, explosive selection and swarm control, reportedly suggesting $200-$300 per drone. Abraham Alvarez is identified as the organizer who received the firearm and equipment.

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• Early June: A group member warned that a week remained before the UFC event to acquire drones, calling it “a f*cking bloodbath.”

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• Early June: Falkner messaged that the group possessed five drones and could buy models resistant to remote jamming.

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• June 22, 2026: Rincker and Falkner made their first federal court appearances.

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The complaint references five drones already owned, the capacity to control over 40 drones, and payloads of at least 12 pounds. Falkner cited a cost of $200-$300 per drone. Alvarez provided Rincker with a 3D printer, night-vision goggles, a shield, a Mac mini computer, and more than $1,000 in cash.

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The Justice Department confirmed the defendants’ court appearances and described the charges as reflecting a “significant threat” to public safety. FBI Director Kash Patel previously announced the initial arrests, stressing the agency’s focus on preventing violent attacks on high-profile events.

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Rincker told investigators he had no explosives, yet the complaint records messages in which he claimed to have found explosives and sent photos of a working 3D printer. The indictment does not confirm whether Falkner ever possessed drones or explosives, despite his extensive planning discussions.

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The alleged plot highlights concerns about the weaponization of commercially available drones and the difficulty of securing large gatherings at federal sites. Authorities have emphasized the need for improved detection and counter-drone measures.

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Both defendants remain in federal custody pending further hearings. The Justice Department indicated that additional individuals may be investigated as the case proceeds.

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• “It’s gonna be a f*cking bloodbath (heartface emoji)” — Unnamed group member

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• “We’re looking at 200-300$/drone if you want this done right,” — William Lee Spartacus Falkner, suspect

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• “Work trip is canceled. My boss got picked up,” — William Lee Spartacus Falkner, suspect

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• “I’m a real idiot for not stepping aside the moment he said what he wanted. But it’s what you guys know,” — Jordan Rincker, suspect

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• “armed a terrorist” — Jordan Rincker, suspect

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