Two men from North Texas have been indicted by federal prosecutors for their roles in a violent attack on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility during the July 4 celebrations. Cameron Arnold and Zachary Evetts are charged with providing material support to terrorists, attempting to murder federal officers, and discharging a firearm in connection with the attack. These indictments follow President Donald Trump’s executive order classifying Antifa as a “domestic terrorist organization.”
Details of the July 4 Attack
The incident took place at the Prairieland ICE detention center in Alvarado, Texas, where several masked individuals arrived, vandalizing property and opening fire on law enforcement. The confrontation occurred around 11 p.m., at which point masked individuals, some armed, initiated gunfire when an officer attempted to engage with them. One officer sustained a gunshot wound to the neck and required medical treatment.
Indictments and Charges
- Cameron Arnold and Zachary Evetts are charged with:
- Providing material support to terrorists
- Attempted murder of federal officers
- Discharging a firearm in relation to a violent crime
The indictment reveals that Arnold had been involved in training other individuals in firearm use and close-quarters combat. Evidence indicates that the group amassed over 50 firearms from Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Dallas, and nearby areas.
Connection to Antifa
The Department of Justice has described Antifa as a network of individuals and groups who adhere to revolutionary anarchist and autonomous Marxist ideologies. The indictment suggests that the group had planned the attack extensively, using an encrypted messaging app for coordination.
Law Enforcement Response
In light of this incident, the FBI reported making over 20 arrests connected to Antifa-related violence under Trump’s administration. The Bureau has previously cautioned about threats posed by individuals affiliated with Antifa and noted that investigations into such extremist groups continue.
Defense Arguments
Arnold and Evetts’ legal representatives argue that holding anti-government beliefs does not constitute a crime. They claim the evidence of gunshot residue is inconclusive and emphasize that the possession of firearms is legal. Their defense casts doubt on the motive of the accused, asserting they believed they were participating in a peaceful protest.
Implications for Law Enforcement
The incident at the Prairieland ICE facility is significant not only for its violence but also as a reflection of increasing tensions around immigration enforcement in the U.S. As the case unfolds, it highlights the intersection of ideology and violence within domestic protest movements.
