Texas Man Charged for Attempting to Support ISIS
A 21-year-old from Midlothian, Texas, has been charged in federal court for allegedly trying to provide material support to ISIS through interactions with undercover agents. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has stated that John Michael Garza Jr. faces serious accusations linked to a designated foreign terrorist organization.
FBI Director Kash Patel explained that Garza was actively engaged in preparations for violent acts, including raising funds for terrorists and working on making explosives. “The FBI spotted the threat early on, took swift action, and neutralized it before it could result in harm,” Patel emphasized. He highlighted the agency’s ongoing commitment to keeping Americans safe.
The DOJ reports that during a meeting on December 22, Garza brought materials for bomb-making to share with an undercover agent who was posing as a supporter of ISIS. He allegedly detailed how to mix those components and even offered to send a video tutorial on creating the explosives. Authorities arrested him right after he left the meeting.
Additionally, Garza transferred small amounts of virtual currency to the undercover agent, believing he was aiding ISIS’s efforts, including acquiring firearms and related supplies. Suspicion was raised when NYPD officers noticed Garza following pro-ISIS accounts on social media and commenting on associated posts.
Throughout various conversations in November and December, Garza disclosed that he identified with ISIS’s ideology, even sharing official ISIS propaganda on multiple occasions. His revelation of being a 21-year-old Mexican American living in Texas came during engagements with an undercover NYPD detective.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi acknowledged the significant work of federal officials in addressing threats like these. “This case is a testament to their dedication in saving American lives,” she remarked.
Heavily emphasizing the need to eradicate ISIS’s harmful ideology, Bondi warned that anyone attempting violence in support of ISIS would be pursued, apprehended, and brought to justice. “You can’t escape from our watchful eye,” she concluded.
