Texas Man Accused In Plot To Attack State Capitol

A 40 year old Texas man has been arrested after authorities said they received credible information about an alleged plan to carry out a violent attack at the Texas State Capitol in Austin. Authorities said they received information about an individual allegedly planning an attack for Thursday, Oct. 1. Investigators worked with federal and local law enforcement agencies before arresting Benny Caldera Jr. at his home in Converse, near San Antonio, at about 3 a.m. Wednesday.

Arrest Made After Credible Threat

Caldera was taken into custody by a specialized law enforcement team and booked into the Bexar County Jail. He was initially charged with making a terroristic threat against a public servant, a third degree felony. According to an arrest warrant affidavit, a person who knew Caldera contacted investigators and reported that he had made statements about attacking the Texas Capitol. The affidavit states that Caldera allegedly said he was going to the Capitol and would “shoot it up.” Authorities have not publicly released a complete account of what investigators believe Caldera planned to do. The investigation remains active, and authorities are examining whether anyone else may have been involved.

Federal Investigation Underway

Caldera initially posted a $75,000 bond following the state charge. Authorities later announced that federal investigators had taken him into custody to face additional federal charges connected to the alleged planned attack. Officials have not publicly detailed all of the additional federal charges. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged threat, including whether there were possible co conspirators. Authorities are also investigating the significance of the alleged planned date and whether additional people could have been involved in the reported plot.

Capitol Remains Open

Despite the reported threat, the Texas Capitol remained open during regular operating hours. State officials notified lawmakers about the arrest and increased security around the Capitol. Authorities said there was no reason to believe there was an ongoing threat to the Capitol, lawmakers, staff or the public following the arrest. Security measures were nevertheless increased while the investigation continued. There were no legislative hearings or major events scheduled at the Capitol for Oct. 1.

Alleged Statements About AIPAC

Court documents and information provided by investigators indicate that Caldera allegedly expressed anger toward the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, commonly known as AIPAC, a pro Israel advocacy organization. According to the arrest affidavit, a friend told investigators that Caldera had expressed hostility toward AIPAC and allegedly made statements involving members of the organization. Those allegations are part of the evidence investigators are examining and do not establish a motive or prove the allegations against Caldera. Authorities have not announced a final determination regarding the motive behind the alleged attack.

Investigation Continues

The arrest came within hours of authorities receiving the initial tip. Investigators worked together to assess the credibility of the information and locate the suspect. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott credited law enforcement agencies for responding to the reported threat and said authorities would not tolerate threats against the state Capitol. Caldera remains in federal custody as investigators continue gathering evidence. The allegations against him have not been proven in court, and the case is expected to develop as federal authorities release additional information.