Federal law enforcement has arrested two more individuals in connection with an alleged plot to attack the UFC Freedom 250 event held earlier this month on the White House lawn, which coincided with President Trump's 80th birthday. The arrests bring the total number of identified suspects to six, with authorities indicating that up to 20 people may have been involved.
Court documents unsealed Friday show that William Lee Spartacus Falkner of Belfair, Washington, was charged with conspiracy to commit murder. The following day, Jordan W. Rincker was taken into custody in Missouri on the same charge. Neither has entered a plea yet.
Details of the Alleged Conspiracy
According to federal filings, investigators uncovered the plot through encrypted online chat groups, including the messaging platform SimpleX. Falkner is accused of using a Telegram account to discuss with three other alleged co-conspirators the ability to "procure and operate drones; tactics and drone related strategy; and the use of explosives."
Rincker, meanwhile, allegedly received a $1,200 cash payment from Abraham A. Alvarez of Nebraska and sent a $100 CashApp payment to Bryan Omar Roa of California, both of whom are also accused of involvement. Rincker is also accused of transferring a pump-action shotgun to Alvarez.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau first learned of the threat on June 10, four days before the event. U.S. Secret Service Deputy Director Matt Quinn emphasized that the event was "never at risk" and that the Secret Service led the investigation from the start, avoiding leaks to protect its integrity.
Broader Investigation and Political Reactions
In addition to the latest arrests, authorities have charged Tycen Proper, 19, of Ohio, with attempted murder of a federal official and multiple firearms-related felonies. Other suspects include Michael Alan Thomas of California and Daniel Eskridge of Missouri.
Vice President JD Vance called the alleged plot "very dark stuff" and accused Democrats of fomenting politically motivated violence. President Trump, who has survived three assassination attempts in the past two years, told reporters he was unaware of the plot.
The incident has also raised questions about security at large-scale events near the White House. An analysis of stadium security gaps highlights the challenges of protecting such high-profile gatherings.
Meanwhile, public trust in federal institutions remains low, as a recent Fox News poll shows trust in government at a record low, underscoring the broader political climate in which this plot emerged.
