Mexican with DACA accused of leading alleged plot against UFC event
Federal authorities charge five people with planning a mass attack during UFC Freedom 250 in Washington
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that a Mexican citizen identified as Abraham Hermosillo Álvarez, 31, was arrested for his alleged participation as the main organizer of an alleged terrorist plot directed against attendees and officials who would participate in the UFC America 250 event, held near the White House.
According to information released by the DHS and the Department of Justice (DOJ), Hermosillo Álvarez was arrested on June 14 in Omaha, Nebraska. US authorities maintain that the suspect coordinated with four other people a plan to carry out a large-scale attack during the sporting event.
Authorities point out use of drones and snipers
According to the federal investigation, the five defendants — Tycen C. Proper, Bryan Omar Roa, Michael Alan Thomas, Daniel K. Eskridge and Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez — face charges of conspiracy to commit murder and conspiracy to commit violence on White House grounds. Reports indicate that the Mexican used the alias “Shepherd” and allegedly shared details of the plan in an encrypted messaging group.
Authorities maintain that in those conversations the use of drones and snipers was discussed with the intention of causing the greatest number of victims possible. However, so far the accused have not been found guilty and the case continues in the judicial process.
DHS highlights suspect's immigration history
The DHS indicated that Hermosillo Álvarez entered the United States with a B2 tourist visa and remained in the country after it expired in December 2001. He later received protection under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program during the administration of former President Barack Obama in 2014.
“This illegal alien from Mexico should never have been allowed to remain in our country,” said Lauren Bis, Acting Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at DHS. The official added that the defendants will face justice for the federal charges filed against them.
Immigration authorities also confirmed that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE) issued an immigration detention order against Hermosillo Álvarez while investigations continue.