Transgender Teen Alleged Neo-Nazi Accused of Plotting Hindu Temple Massacre Thwarted by Tip

Authorities have arrested a 19-year-old transgender individual accused of plotting a mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Aurora, a suburb of Chicago. The alleged attack was thwarted after a coworker reported suspicious messages, according to police.

Alexandros Paporakis, of Palatine, was arrested on Sunday and faces charges including making a terrorist threat and unlawful possession of a weapon. A Cook County judge ordered Paporakis held without bond. The court also mandated that Paporakis receive hormone injections for gender transition while incarcerated and continue treatment for ADHD, depression, and anxiety.

Prosecutors allege that Paporakis drove to the Hindu temple armed with a modified rifle, approximately 300 rounds of ammunition, body armor, and tactical gear. The suspect reportedly intended to carry out the shooting, but the rifle malfunctioned, causing Paporakis to return home. After returning, the suspect allegedly searched online for ways to unjam the weapon and informed a colleague of the plan to commit a mass shooting.

Coworkers at Taco Bell reported the suspicious message to Mount Prospect Police, who then obtained a search warrant. Police detained Paporakis before the suspect could allegedly return to the temple. Authorities commended the individuals who reported the threat, urging the public to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

During a search of Paporakis' residence, police discovered a rifle, a loaded magazine, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and tactical gear. They also found what is described as an eight-page manifesto detailing the alleged attack and expressing white supremacist views. According to police, the writings included hateful content targeting Jewish people, African-Americans, Indians, and other non-white individuals, referring to them as "subhumans" and expressing a desire to kill as many as possible.

The manifesto also referred to Paporakis as the "Aurora Shooter" and detailed a hatred for various groups, expressing pleasure in identifying as a "sociopathic white supremacist Neo-Nazi filled with hatred, fantasizing about mass murder nearly every day."

Authorities praised the tipster, with FBI Chicago Field Office acting special agent in charge Lucas Rothaar stating at a press conference that "a single, courageous member of the public who comes forward" can prevent attacks. Surveillance video confirmed Paporakis' vehicle at the temple's parking lot shortly before the planned attack.

Paporakis' next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 30. The Hindu temple has stated it is aware of the threat and has increased security measures, including additional armed security presence, to ensure the safety of its devotees, employees, and volunteers.