Texas Man Arrested for Alleged Plot to Attack State Capitol
Officials received credible information about a planned violent attack and apprehended the suspect early Wednesday.
A Texas man, identified as Benny Caldera Jr., 40, was arrested early Wednesday morning at his home in Converse, Texas, on suspicion of planning a violent attack on the State Capitol. He faces a felony charge of making a terroristic threat against a public servant.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) stated it received credible information on Tuesday regarding someone plotting a violent attack for Thursday on the Capitol. In response, DPS special agents collaborated with the FBI and local law enforcement agencies to investigate the threat.
Around 3 a.m. on Wednesday, DPS SWAT units arrested Caldera, who was described as the primary suspect, at his residence. He was subsequently taken to the Bexar County Jail and later released on a $75,000 bond.
Officials have not disclosed the specific details of the alleged attack plan or the nature of the intelligence that led to the arrest. The DPS has also not identified any other suspects in the case.
The Texas Capitol remained open for regular business hours, though the DPS has increased its presence to ensure the safety of employees, officials, and visitors.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott acknowledged the swift action, stating on X, "Texas DPS and the FBI stopped a planned attack on the Texas Capitol. Texas will NOT tolerate threats of violence against our Capitol."
The incident remains under investigation.