Eight individuals have been sentenced to a total of 450 years in prison following a violent incident outside an immigration detention center in Texas.
The group, alleged to have ties to Antifa, was found guilty of causing unrest outside the Prairieland detention facility near Dallas on July 4th last year, with a former US Marine receiving the longest sentence of 100 years.
The US Department of Justice stated that members associated with the North Texas Antifa Cell ignited fireworks, damaged property, and engaged in other illegal activities during the disturbance on Independence Day.
Antifa has been a focal point of criticism, notably by former President Donald Trump, who classified the group as a “domestic terrorist organization” in 2025. The convicted defendants, believed to be part of the Antifa movement, were charged with various offenses including rioting and obstructing justice.
Benjamin Hanil Song, identified as the group’s leader, was handed the harshest sentence for attempted murder of a law enforcement officer. The defendants’ family members criticized the severity of the sentences imposed by US Judge Amos Mazzant.
In response to the verdict, Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche emphasized that those who commit violence against law enforcement will face severe consequences, denouncing violent extremism.
The DOJ highlighted that the North Texas Antifa Cell was part of a network advocating for the overthrow of the US government and law enforcement. Supporters of the defendants argued that the sentences were excessively harsh.
Some protest attendees claimed the event was meant as a peaceful demonstration, distancing themselves from violence. Additionally, a ninth defendant and seven others who pleaded guilty will also face sentencing related to the incident.
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