Alvarado, Texas, December 5, 2025
In a federal court appearance, four individuals, accused of orchestrating the July 4 attack on Alvarado’s ICE detention center, pleaded not guilty. This incident left a police officer injured and has raised significant safety concerns. The defendants face serious charges, including attempted murder and could face sentences from 10 years to life if convicted. The case has drawn attention as it involves alleged members of an ‘antifa cell’, marking a notable indictment under current government policies.
Alvarado, Texas: Four Defendants Plead Not Guilty in ICE Facility Attack
On December 3, 2025, four individuals charged in connection with the July 4 attack on the Prairieland Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, pleaded not guilty in federal court. The defendants—Benjamin Song, Meagan Morris, Maricela Rueda, and Savanna Batten—are accused of orchestrating and participating in the assault that resulted in an Alvarado police officer being shot in the neck. A federal trial is scheduled for January 5, 2026, in Fort Worth.
Details of the Attack
On July 4, 2025, a group of individuals, dressed in black military-style clothing, initiated a disturbance outside the Prairieland Detention Center. They set off fireworks and vandalized vehicles to draw ICE employees outside. Once officers responded, the group ambushed them with gunfire, injuring an Alvarado police officer. The assailants fled the scene, leading to a manhunt that resulted in multiple arrests.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
In total, nine individuals have been charged in connection with the attack. Five defendants—Nathan Baumann, Joy Gibson, Seth Sikes, Lynette Sharp, and John Thomas—pleaded guilty in November 2025 to providing material support to terrorists. The remaining four defendants, including Song, Morris, Rueda, and Batten, have pleaded not guilty. They face charges ranging from attempted murder of federal officers to discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. If convicted, they could face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison, depending on the specific charges.
Background on the Defendants
Federal officials have described the group as an “antifa cell,” marking the first terrorism indictment against alleged members of antifa, which the Trump administration has labeled a terrorist organization. “Antifa” is shorthand for “antifascist,” representing an ideology and belief system rather than a centralized organization. The defendants are from various Texas cities, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Kennedale, Waxahachie, and College Station, indicating a coordinated effort across the state.
Impact and Community Response
The attack has raised concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel and the security of federal facilities. Local authorities and community members have expressed support for the injured officer and emphasized the need for unity and vigilance in the face of such violence. The upcoming trial is expected to provide further insights into the motives and planning behind the attack, as well as the broader implications for public safety and national security.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened during the July 4 attack on the Prairieland ICE Detention Center?
On July 4, 2025, a group of individuals initiated a disturbance outside the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas, by setting off fireworks and vandalizing vehicles to draw ICE employees outside. Once officers responded, the group ambushed them with gunfire, injuring an Alvarado police officer. The assailants fled the scene, leading to a manhunt that resulted in multiple arrests.
What charges have been brought against the defendants?
In total, nine individuals have been charged in connection with the attack. Five defendants—Nathan Baumann, Joy Gibson, Seth Sikes, Lynette Sharp, and John Thomas—pleaded guilty in November 2025 to providing material support to terrorists. The remaining four defendants, including Benjamin Song, Meagan Morris, Maricela Rueda, and Savanna Batten, have pleaded not guilty. They face charges ranging from attempted murder of federal officers to discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. If convicted, they could face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison, depending on the specific charges.
What is the significance of the term “antifa” in this case?
Federal officials have described the group as an “antifa cell,” marking the first terrorism indictment against alleged members of antifa, which the Trump administration has labeled a terrorist organization. “Antifa” is shorthand for “antifascist,” representing an ideology and belief system rather than a centralized organization. The defendants are from various Texas cities, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Kennedale, Waxahachie, and College Station, indicating a coordinated effort across the state.
When is the trial scheduled, and what are the potential outcomes?
The federal trial for the defendants who have pleaded not guilty is scheduled for January 5, 2026, in Fort Worth. If convicted, the defendants could face sentences ranging from 10 years to life in prison, depending on the specific charges. The trial is expected to provide further insights into the motives and planning behind the attack, as well as the broader implications for public safety and national security.
Key Features of the Alvarado ICE Facility Attack Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | July 4, 2025 |
| Location | Prairieland ICE Detention Center, Alvarado, Texas |
| Number of Defendants Charged | 9 |
| Defendants Pleading Guilty | 5 |
| Defendants Pleading Not Guilty | 4 |
| Trial Date for Not Guilty Defendants | January 5, 2026 |
| Potential Sentences for Convicted Defendants | 10 years to life in prison |
| Defendants’ Alleged Affiliation | Antifa cell |
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