Mixed Verdicts in ICE Detention Facility Attack Trial

On Friday, jurors came back with mixed verdicts in the federal trial involving nine individuals accused of an “ambush” on an ICE detention facility in North Texas back in 2025.

A federal jury in Fort Worth convicted the defendants, identified as being part of an “Antifa cell,” for their roles in the attack on the Prairieland ICE Detention Center that took place on July 4, 2025, as confirmed by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).

The jury deliberated for roughly a day and a half before rendering their decision around 2:30 p.m. on Friday. FOX 4 News shared the details of the verdict.

“This guilty verdict underscores the FBI’s unwavering commitment to identifying and dismantling ANTIFA networks,” Kash Patel stated in reaction to the verdict.

He expressed gratitude towards the Dallas Field Office for their efforts, emphasizing that any assault on federal law enforcement will be met with thorough investigation and action.

The 12-day trial commenced on February 23, 2026, with jurors hearing from over 45 witnesses and reviewing more than 210 pieces of evidence related to the charges against the defendants, as noted by the Department of Justice.

Among those convicted was Benjamin Song, found guilty of attempted murder for the fatal shooting of Alvarado Police Department Lt. Thomas Gross.

Except for one defendant, Daniel Estrada, all were convicted on charges such as providing material support to terrorists, rioting, conspiracy to use explosives, and using explosives during a riot, according to FOX 4.

Estrada, who was not present during the attack, was nonetheless convicted of hiding records and conspiracy to conceal documents. Maricela Rueda also faced similar charges.

Attorney General Pamela Bondi labeled Antifa a domestic terrorist organization, suggesting it has been allowed to operate in cities under Democratic leadership, contrasting it to the Trump administration’s stance.

Authorities reported that the incident involved fireworks, destruction of property, and gunfire directed at officers outside the Prairieland facility.

Prosecutors argued that Song orchestrated the attack, executed by the alleged Antifa cell.

However, the defense pushed back, claiming there was no intent to ambush and denying that violence was ever planned.

ICE Director Todd Lyons criticized the attack as an inexcusable method of protest against the agency’s enforcement practices, asserting that the verdict demonstrates the commitment to holding those who choose violence accountable under the law.