Teen Detained for Alleged Plot Targeting Texas Congressman
A federal investigation into a 17-year-old accused of plotting a politically motivated attack against a representative has prompted the lawmaker to bolster his security detail.
By Imani Brooks ·
Law enforcement agencies recently arrested a minor in connection with a serious threat against a public official, prompting questions regarding the scope of the alleged scheme. The FBI took custody of a 17-year-old from McKinney on Oct. 5, as confirmed by the campaign manager for Representative Keith Self. The following day, the congressman's team was alerted to the detention through the U.S. Capitol Police.
Details provided to the campaign suggest the teen had been radicalized and was under surveillance by federal agents. Investigators believe the individual was planning a terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS. The intended target was a chili cook-off fundraiser for veterans, an event scheduled for Oct. 17 that featured former Cowboys players and other high-profile guests. A request for additional information sent to the FBI's Dallas office had not received a response as of this week.
In response to the alleged threat, the congressman stated that he increased his vigilance and security measures. Despite the gravity of the situation, Self indicated he has not altered his campaign schedule or daily activities.
Self, who has previously deployed to combat zones, described his reaction to the news as calm. He noted that while he understands the potential dangers, his prior military experience prepared him for such circumstances. He also mentioned that his wife, a military spouse for 25 years, is taking the threat very seriously.
Although the congressman has received threats in the past, he acknowledged that nothing has previously reached the level of an arrest. He stated that he proceeded with his planned appearance at the Oct. 17 event to judge the chili and beans without incident. Self has continued to engage with voters at polling locations and remains committed to his campaign activities.
The congressman has recently taken a stance on religious and cultural issues, introducing a nonbinding resolution in September denouncing Sharia law and asserting the Constitution as the supreme law of the land. His district encompasses McKinney, where a unanimous city council vote in August to approve plans for a local mosque expansion was followed by contentious public comment and an effort to recall council members. Evan Hunt, Self's opponent in the midterm election, condemned the alleged plot in a social media post. The identity of the teen has not been released as the investigation continues.
Source: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth
