North Carolina Woman Charged in Synagogue Attack Plot
A woman from North Carolina has been charged in connection with a conspiracy to attack a synagogue in Texas, and authorities believe a multi-state investigation may have helped prevent what could have been a tragic incident.
Angelina Han Hicks, an 18-year-old from Lexington, is accused of being involved in a plot targeting a Houston synagogue aimed at causing significant harm, according to reports. Authorities allege she intended to drive through the congregation with the aim of harming as many people as possible.
Hicks was taken into custody on Wednesday after law enforcement acted swiftly on a tip-off. The FBI’s Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force initiated a multi-state investigation, which ultimately led to her arrest and a juvenile indictment in Harris County, Texas.
The FBI praised the individual who alerted law enforcement, noting that this action was crucial to thwarting the potential attack.
Authorities discovered what they termed a “mass casualty incident” plan, raising initial fears that the threat could be immediate. Alan Martin, the chief assistant district attorney, expressed serious concern over the possibility of an imminent attack on the Houston synagogue.
Hicks is reportedly involved with two male suspects, identified only as “Teagan” and “Angel,” whose locations remain unknown, which leaves the community unsettled regarding their safety.
The judge assigned to the case set Hicks’ bail at $10 million, citing the risks posed by potential communication with co-conspirators as a reason to keep her in custody.
In light of the situation, Congregation Beth Israel, the oldest Jewish congregation in Texas, chose to close its doors temporarily as a precaution, drawing attention to the pressing need for safety within the Jewish community in Houston.
Investigators have yet to specify a motive for the alleged plan, and Martin noted it was unclear why a synagogue located over 1,000 miles away was targeted. Hicks’ public defender mentioned that the case is still evolving, and her age may play a role in her defense strategy.
Hicks’ father, speaking anonymously, disputed the charges, describing his daughter as a “good kid” and expressing confusion over the allegations. He claimed she lacks a driver’s license and access to a vehicle, despite the plot involving an attack with a car, a point that has not been addressed by authorities.
This arrest follows an increase in threats against the Jewish community, with officials emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities to prevent such plots from coming to fruition.
Currently, Hicks remains in the Davidson County Detention Center, with a court appearance scheduled for next month.
