Authorities in Texas have charged a 21-year-old man with international terrorism offenses for allegedly supplying bomb components and financial support to individuals he believed had ties to ISIS.
Details of the Case Against John Michael Garza, Jr.
John Michael Garza, Jr. from Midlothian, Texas, was arrested after bringing various bomb-making materials to a meeting on December 22, 2025. He believed he was providing support to an ISIS member, who was, in fact, an undercover FBI agent.
Background of the Investigation
The investigation began in mid-October 2025 when an undercover officer from the New York Police Department identified Garza’s social media account. This account followed multiple pro-ISIS profiles, and Garza publicly commented on a pro-ISIS post.
- Garza identified himself as a Mexican-American living in Texas.
- He expressed his support for ISIS ideology through discussions and shared multiple official ISIS media releases.
- He transmitted cryptocurrency payments to the undercover agent for purported ISIS causes.
Evidence Collected
During his online interactions, Garza provided various visuals, including:
- A photo of a masked individual in a gated area.
- A photo depicting an explosion in a building.
- A video showing a suicide vehicle bombing.
These materials reinforced his commitment to supporting extremist actions. In meetings, he detailed plans for creating explosives, including how to mix the ingredients and make the devices more lethal by surrounding them with nails.
Law Enforcement Response
Prominent law enforcement officials emphasized the importance of collaboration in countering terrorism. Attorney General Pamela Bondi remarked on the diligent efforts of federal agents in safeguarding public safety. FBI Director Kash Patel reiterated the agency’s commitment to dismantling terrorist threats.
Upcoming Court Proceedings
Garza made his initial court appearance on December 23, 2025, and a probable cause and detention hearing is slated for December 30. Should he be convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
Collaborative Efforts in Terrorism Prevention
The case underscores the ongoing fight against terrorism involving various law enforcement agencies, including:
- FBI’s Dallas and New York Field Offices
- New York Police Department (NYPD)
- Local police departments, including Dallas, Midlothian, and Euless
Assistant U.S. Attorney Madeleine Case and DOJ Trial Attorney David Courchaine are prosecuting the case. It is crucial to acknowledge that the allegations against Garza remain unproven until determined by a court.
