Texas Man Arrested for Alleged Capitol Attack Plot

A man in Texas, identified as Benny Caldera Jr., 40, was arrested on Wednesday morning after officials claimed he was planning an attack on the Texas State Capitol. The arrest took place at his residence in Converse, Texas, and he faces felony charges for making a terroristic threat against a public official.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported receiving credible information on Tuesday regarding a plot for a violent attack scheduled for Thursday at the Capitol.

Special agents from the DPS collaborated with the FBI and local law enforcement to analyze the threat. Early Wednesday, around 3 a.m., the DPS SWAT team apprehended Caldera, who has been identified as the primary suspect. He was subsequently taken to jail.

FBI Director Kash Patel expressed appreciation for the quick response, saying on social media, “Outstanding work by @TxDPS. Proud of our @FBISanAntonio team for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our state and local partners.” He highlighted how, within hours of the threat being reported, the main suspect was in custody, emphasizing law enforcement’s swift action against threats to Americans and institutions.

Initially, Caldera was released on a $75,000 bond from the Bexar County Jail, but later that same day, the FBI took him into federal custody to face additional charges. Specifics regarding these new charges have not yet been disclosed.

A spokesperson for the DPS, Kevin Cooper, stated, “Late this evening, Benny Caldera Jr., 40, was arrested by the FBI at the Bexar Co. Jail to face additional federal charges in connection with a possible planned attack at the Texas State Capitol.” He also noted that inquiries about the federal case should be directed to the FBI, as details remain sparse.

Moreover, officials did not provide insights into the specifics of the planned attack or the credible information they had received. No additional suspects have been identified publicly at this time.

The threat and subsequent arrest were communicated to Texas state legislators, although the Capitol continued its regular operations. The DPS announced it would increase security presence at the Capitol to ensure the safety of employees, officials, and visitors.

The situation is still under active investigation. Texas Governor Greg Abbott acknowledged the efforts of the DPS and FBI, stating that the state would not tolerate threats of violence against its Capitol.