Charges Filed in Prairiland Detention Center Ambush
Several individuals connected to the Prairiland Detention Center have previously faced arrest during protests against ICE. One of these individuals, INES SOTO, was among ten people charged with attempted murder of federal officials and weapons offenses, stemming from a protest in 2016. At that time, the protest aimed to oppose Richard Spencer’s speech at Texas A&M University. Soto, who was 31 during the protest, is now 40 and has since been released on a $10,000 bond.
On July 4, 2025, ten suspects were formally charged with attempted murder related to an ambush at the Prairiland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas. According to reports, criminal history played a role in identifying some suspects, including Savannah Batten, who had previously participated in the Occupy Dallas movement. Batten faced arrest in 2011 and had other encounters with law enforcement, including a trespassing charge that was later dismissed in exchange for community service.
Another key individual, Benjamin Song, was arrested recently and has a previous history of anti-ICE protests. He was involved in a 2023 lawsuit regarding a counter-protest in Fort Worth and has affiliations with a left-wing group, the Elm Folk John Brown Gun Club. His social media presence shows he has been outspoken about his political stance and has even engaged in tactical training.
During the ambush, it was reported that graffiti featuring messages such as “Ice Pig” was found on vehicles outside the detention center. The situation escalated with one officer being shot and rounds fired at others by suspects, leading to serious injuries and significant damage.
U.S. Attorney Nancy E. Larson commented on the nature of the incident, emphasizing that it was far from a peaceful protest, labeling it an ambush against law enforcement. She underscored the unacceptable rise in violence against police in Northern Texas and pledged to pursue the strictest penalties for those involved.
Amidst these developments, further details and connections among the suspects are continuing to emerge.
