North Carolina Woman Arrested for Alleged Conspiracy to Attack Texas Synagogue

An 18-year-old woman from North Carolina could face bail set at $10 million following her arrest for allegedly conspiring with two men to target Jewish worshipers at a synagogue in Texas.

Angelina Han Hicks, a resident of Lexington, was taken into custody on Wednesday, charged with two felony counts linked to a plot against Congregation Beth Israel in Houston. Court documents reviewed indicated that the co-conspirators are identified only as “Angel” and “Teagan.”

A report from FOX8 WGHP mentioned that April 21, 2028, was identified as the planned date for the attack on the congregation. However, the office of District Attorney Garry Frank clarified that this date does not accurately reflect the breadth of the evidence and shouldn’t be seen as a sign that the attack was not imminent.

Additionally, a 16-year-old boy from Harris County, Texas, was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit capital murder, according to the Associated Press. It’s unclear if this unrest is linked specifically to Congregation Beth Israel.

The FBI revealed that the Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force initiated an investigation after getting a tip from North Carolina law enforcement. FBI Director Kash Patel noted that swift actions taken likely prevented a tragedy.

During a court hearing, District Judge Carlton Terry set Hicks’ bail at $10 million, highlighting that the conspiracy involved attempting to harm those attending the synagogue.

Chad Freeman, Hicks’ attorney, mentioned that he couldn’t provide comments on the accusations but noted he had a brief conversation with her regarding the preparations.

In an audio statement acquired by FOX8 WGHP, Hicks’ father, Danny, claimed the allegations are unfounded and asserted that his daughter had been involved in online fantasy games. He added that she did not own a car or possess a driver’s license.

As a precaution, Congregation Beth Israel closed its campus on Wednesday. The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston reported that law enforcement has heightened patrols around local Jewish institutions in response to the situation.