Daijiworld Media Network - Texas
Texas, Dec 30: A 21-year-old resident of Midlothian, Texas, has been charged with international terrorism after authorities say he attempted to support the Islamic State by providing money and materials to undercover law enforcement officers posing as extremists.
The US Department of Justice announced on December 29 that John Michael Garza Jr. allegedly transferred funds and supplied items intended for use in attacks, believing he was assisting ISIS-linked individuals. Prosecutors say the case stemmed from an undercover operation involving the FBI and the New York Police Department.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said the federal government remains resolute in pursuing anyone who seeks to carry out violence in the name of extremist ideologies, warning that those involved will be identified and prosecuted.
Garza made his initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge on December 23, with a detention and probable cause hearing scheduled for December 30. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison.
US Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Ryan Raybould said the case underscored the importance of close monitoring and rapid intervention, noting that early action helped prevent what could have led to serious harm.
According to court documents, the investigation began in mid-October when an undercover NYPD officer observed a social media account engaging with pro-ISIS content. Authorities later linked the account to Garza, who allegedly expressed support for ISIS ideology during subsequent online conversations.
Investigators claim Garza shared extremist propaganda, sent small cryptocurrency payments he believed would support ISIS-related activities, and discussed acquiring materials for violent acts. He also allegedly circulated videos connected to extremist violence and bomb-making.
In December, Garza arranged to meet someone he believed to be an ISIS supporter, who was actually an undercover FBI agent. During that meeting, authorities say he handed over explosive-related components and discussed their intended use. He was arrested shortly afterward.
FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge R. Joseph Rothrock said the arrest reflected strong cooperation among law enforcement agencies to stop potential threats before they could escalate.
The joint investigation involved the FBI offices in Dallas and New York, the NYPD, and several local police departments in Texas.
NYPD commissioner Jessica Tisch said the threat of terrorism remains serious, emphasizing that authorities will continue working to disrupt extremist networks before they can carry out acts of violence. She added that anyone who puts American lives at risk will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.