A Texas resident was apprehended on Wednesday following an alleged plan to carry out an attack on the state Capitol building, according to official reports.
Benny Caldera Jr., 40, was taken into custody in the early hours of Wednesday at his residence in Converse, Texas. He faces a felony charge for making a terroristic threat against a public servant and has been booked into the Bexar County Jail.
Investigation Leads to Swift Apprehension
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced in a press release that it acquired "credible information" on Tuesday concerning an individual's plot for a "violent attack" scheduled for Thursday at the Capitol.
Special agents from DPS collaborated with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and various local law enforcement agencies to investigate the serious threat.
At approximately 3 a.m. on Wednesday, the DPS SWAT team arrested Caldera, identified by the agency as the "main suspect," at his home before transporting him to jail.
FBI Director Kash Patel commended the swift action, stating:
"Outstanding work by @TxDPS. Proud of our @FBISanAntonio team for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our state and local partners. Within HOURS of the tip, @TxDPS had the main suspect in custody — with @FBISanAntonio and local law enforcement assisting. Threaten Americans or our institutions and law enforcement will move FAST."
Caldera has since been released after posting a $75,000 bond.
Details Remain Scant Amid Enhanced Security
Officials have not yet disclosed specific details about the alleged planned assault or the exact nature of the credible information that led to the arrest. DPS has also refrained from publicly identifying any other potential suspects in the case.
Leadership within DPS informed Texas state legislators about both the threat and Caldera's subsequent arrest. Despite the incident, the Capitol maintained its regular operating hours.
The department confirmed an increased law enforcement presence at the Capitol to ensure the safety of employees, state officials, and visitors. The matter is currently under active investigation.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott also weighed in on the incident, remarking on social media:
"Texas DPS and the FBI stopped a planned attack on the Texas Capitol. Texas will NOT tolerate threats of violence against our Capitol. Thank you, @TxDPS, for a job well done."
