Eight individuals have been sentenced to a total of 450 years in jail following a violent incident outside an immigration detention center in Texas. Prosecutors linked the group to Antifa, with a former US Marine receiving a 100-year prison term. The group was found guilty of causing unrest outside the Prairieland detention facility near Dallas on July 4th last year.
According to the US Department of Justice (DOJ), members associated with the North Texas Antifa Cell ignited fireworks, vandalized vehicles, and damaged a guard kiosk during the disturbance on Independence Day.
Antifa has been a focal point for former President Donald Trump, who, in 2025, classified the anti-fascist movement as a “domestic terrorist organization” through an executive order. Critics argue that Antifa is an ideology rather than a structured group and should not be deemed criminal. Trump accused the group of radicalizing individuals for political violence and vowed aggressive enforcement action against them.
The convicted defendants, identified as part of the Antifa group, were found guilty of various offenses, including rioting, weapon use, providing support to terrorists, and obstruction of justice.
Benjamin Hanil Song, described as the group’s leader by prosecutors, received the longest sentence for attempted murder of a law enforcement officer. Song stated he fired his gun believing the officer was targeting a protester, as reported by multiple media outlets.
Maricela Rueda was sentenced to 70 years in prison, while Cameron Arnold, also known as Autumn Hill, Savanna Batten, Zachary Evetts, Bradford Morris, also known as Meagan Morris, and Elizabeth Soto each received 50-year sentences. Daniel Rolando Sanchez-Estrada was handed a 30-year prison term.
US Judge Amos Mazzant condemned the group’s actions as an “assault on democracy,” while family members of the defendants criticized the lengthy prison sentences.
Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the sentences sent a clear message that those attacking law enforcement and federal facilities under the Antifa banner would face severe consequences, denouncing violent extremism.
The DOJ disclosed that the North Texas Antifa Cell was part of a network advocating for the overthrow of the US government and legal system. Supporters of the defendants argued that the punishments were excessively harsh.
Some protesters claimed the gathering was meant to be a peaceful “noise demonstration” and not intended for violence. The defendants denied any affiliation with Antifa, stating they attended to show support for detained immigrants.
One defendant, Ines Soto, awaits sentencing on July 1st, while seven others who pleaded guilty to supporting terrorists will also be sentenced on the same date.