Department of Justice Takes Action Against Antifa
The U.S. Department of Justice has made a significant move against the group Antifa, recognized as a terrorist organization. This week, a Texas member received a hefty 450-year prison sentence for an attack on a federal immigration facility that occurred a year ago.
The individual convicted was Benjamin Hanil Song, identified as the alleged leader of a North Texas cell and a former Marine reservist. On July 4, 2025, he was sentenced to a remarkable 100 years for attempting to murder a police officer, Alvarado, during an incident at the Prairieland Detention Center just outside Fort Worth.
Body camera footage from the attack was obtained by various news outlets.
Additionally, five members of Antifa received 50-year sentences each, while another was sentenced to 70 years, and one to 30 years for their involvement in protests that included explosives, vandalism, and rioting. Notably, five of the defendants were women.
The Justice Department stated that this verdict marks the first against an Antifa-affiliated individual since President Trump designated Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization back in September 2025.
During a 12-day jury trial in February, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche commented on the successful prosecution, emphasizing the stark contrast between the actions of the defendants and peaceful protests protected under the First Amendment.
The ruling today reinforces that Antifa members who attack law enforcement will face prompt and unwavering justice. Their extremist actions will not be tolerated in our country.
Evidence presented during the trial indicated that the members of the Prairieland attack cell regarded Benjamin Song as their leader. Prosecutors revealed that he procured firearms, distributed them among his co-defendants, and even recruited new members.
Testimony and other evidence confirmed that these individuals were members of the North Texas Antifa Cell, part of a larger extremist group aiming to dismantle the U.S. government and law enforcement. Experts testified that Antifa’s organized tactics include rioting and violent confrontations, particularly targeting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) due to opposition to deportation actions.
David J. Venturella, the Acting Director of ICE, noted that the severe sentences send a clear message against attacks on federal employees and facilities.
The sentences handed down today signify that assaults on federal personnel will not be accepted. The dedication and bravery of ICE officials are commendable, especially in challenging circumstances.
The defendants were known to wear “black bloc” attire—black clothing covering their heads and faces—to hide their identities while committing illegal acts. Prosecutors indicated that this gear helped members blend in and evade law enforcement.
Evidence revealed that the group brought several firearms, bulletproof vests, and military-style first aid kits to the scene of the attack.
Witnesses reported that Officer Alvarado arrived after correctional officers called for help. Body camera footage captured Song firing at the officers and shouting directives during the incident.
Reports indicated that another participant fired up to 30 shots at unarmed correctional officers outside the facility during the assault.
Further sentencing is anticipated next month. According to the Department of Justice, the trial included testimony from 46 witnesses and over 210 pieces of evidence related to the nine defendants’ charges. All were convicted, although one defendant received probation and is set for sentencing on July 1.
The Alvaldao detention center, housing illegal aliens, is situated in a town with a population of around 6,200, about 45 miles from Fort Worth.
