After a violent incident outside a Texas immigration detention center, eight individuals have been sentenced to a total of 450 years in prison.
The group, allegedly associated with Antifa according to prosecutors, engaged in unrest at the Prairieland detention facility near Dallas on July 4th last year. A former US Marine received the longest sentence of 100 years among the convicted individuals.
The US Department of Justice stated that members linked to the North Texas Antifa Cell caused chaos by setting off fireworks, damaging property, and attacking the facility on Independence Day.
Antifa has been a focal point for former President Donald Trump, who in 2025 labeled the movement a “domestic terrorist organization.” Critics argue that Antifa is an ideology rather than a structured group, and Trump accused them of inciting violence among young Americans.
The convicted defendants, affiliated with Antifa, were found guilty of various crimes including rioting, weapon use, and supporting terrorists. Benjamin Hanil Song, identified as the group’s leader, was sentenced to 100 years for attempting to murder a law enforcement officer.
During the sentencing, Song claimed he fired his weapon in defense of a protester, while his mother refuted allegations that he shot an officer intentionally.
Other members of the group received sentences ranging from 30 to 70 years for their involvement in the disturbance. The presiding judge described the actions as an attack on democracy, while some criticized the severity of the penalties.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that those who engage in violence against law enforcement will face severe consequences. The DOJ linked the North Texas Antifa Cell to a network advocating for the overthrow of the US government.
Despite claims of attending the protest to support detained immigrants, defendants denied ties to Antifa. An additional defendant is awaiting sentencing, while others who pleaded guilty will also face sentencing on the same date.
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