By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Federal prosecutors have indicted eight men for allegedly plotting to attack the White House during the “UFC Freedom 250” event hosted by President Donald Trump on June 14 in Washington, D.C. The suspects, aged between 19 and 32, allegedly planned to use armed drones and snipers to target high-value officials during the event. Investigators uncovered the conspiracy through online chat groups before the attack could happen, leading to federal terrorism and murder conspiracy charges.
Justice Department Announces Federal Indictment
The U.S. Department of Justice announced on Thursday that a federal grand jury in Columbus, Ohio, indicted all eight suspects.
The indictment replaces earlier charges that prosecutors filed in different jurisdictions across the United States.
Authorities charged the suspects with conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists. They also face conspiracy to commit murder on federal government property and conspiracy to murder a federal government official.
Authorities Allege Drone and Sniper Attack Plan
According to prosecutors, the group planned to launch armed drones at the White House South Lawn during the event.
Investigators said the suspects intended to create confusion with drone strikes while snipers targeted senior government officials.
Prosecutors revealed that the group communicated through online chat platforms. They allegedly recruited members, discussed tactics and encouraged one another to carry out the attack.
Eighth Suspect Arrested
Authorities arrested the eighth suspect, 21-year-old Charles Scaggs of West Virginia, earlier this week.
Prosecutors alleged that Scaggs had been assigned the role of a sniper during the planned attack.
The suspects come from several U.S. states, according to court documents.
Plot Foiled Before White House Event
Law enforcement agencies disrupted the alleged conspiracy before the June 14 event.
The “UFC Freedom 250” tournament proceeded without any security breach.
The event formed part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.
About 4,000 spectators attended the fights inside a temporary arena known as “The Claw,” built on the White House grounds.
White House Security Remains Strong
The White House remains one of the world’s most secure government facilities.
Security measures include advanced surveillance systems, anti-aircraft defenses and highly trained emergency response teams.
Officials said those layers of protection helped strengthen security preparations before the event.
Trump Has Faced Previous Threats
President Donald Trump has survived several alleged assassination attempts in recent years.
Most recently, in April, authorities said a gunman attempted to storm a White House Correspondents’ Association gala dinner attended by Trump.
Federal investigators continue examining the latest case as court proceedings move forward.
