DALLAS, United States- Eight people accused by federal prosecutors of belonging to a North Texas Antifa cell have been sentenced to a combined 450 years in prison for their roles in a violent attack outside an immigration detention facility in Texas that left a police officer wounded.
The sentences were handed down after convictions stemming from a July 4, 2025, incident at the Prairieland Detention Center, located south of Dallas. Prosecutors said the group launched a coordinated assault involving fireworks, gunfire, and vandalism targeting law enforcement officers and federal property.
The most severe sentence was imposed on Benjamin Hanil Song, a former United States Marine Corps reservist described by prosecutors as the group’s leader. Song received a 100-year prison term after being convicted of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.
According to the US Department of Justice, an officer was shot in the neck during the unrest. Prosecutors alleged that members of the group fired weapons, launched fireworks, and damaged vehicles and security infrastructure at the detention facility.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche said the sentences demonstrated the government’s commitment to combating violent extremism.
“The sentences handed down today make clear that Antifa terrorists who attack law enforcement and federal facilities will face swift and uncompromising justice,” Blanche said in a statement.
The remaining defendants received lengthy prison terms ranging from 30 to 70 years. Maricela Rueda was sentenced to 70 years, while Cameron Arnold, Savanna Batten, Zachary Evetts, Bradford Morris, and Elizabeth Soto each received 50-year sentences. Daniel Rolando Sanchez-Estrada was sentenced to 30 years.
Federal prosecutors said the defendants were convicted on multiple charges, including rioting, weapons offences, use of explosives, obstruction, and providing material support to terrorists.
Defence Challenges Prosecution Narrative
Supporters and family members of the defendants criticised the sentences as excessive and disputed the government’s characterisation of the group.
Song maintained in a written statement that he fired his weapon because he believed an officer was preparing to shoot a protester. His mother, Hope Song, also challenged claims that her son intended to injure anyone.
The defendants have denied being members of Antifa, arguing they attended the demonstration in support of detained immigrants. Some participants reportedly described the event as a planned “noise protest” that was not intended to become violent.
A ninth defendant, Ines Soto, is scheduled to be sentenced on July 1. Seven additional individuals who previously pleaded guilty to providing material support to terrorists are also awaiting sentencing.
