FBI Arrests McKinney Teen Over Alleged Plot Targeting Rep. Self
A federal investigation led to the detainment of a minor accused of planning an attack against a Texas lawmaker at a local event.
By Ken Adams ·
Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas, confirmed that federal authorities apprehended a 17-year-old from McKinney on Oct. 5, alleging the youth plotted to assassinate the congressman. The confirmation regarding the suspect's age and residence came through Self's campaign officials. The congressman represents Texas' 3rd congressional district and is currently campaigning for a third term in office.
The campaign manager stated that the team first became aware of the situation on Oct. 6, following notification from U.S. Capitol Police. Investigators reportedly advised the campaign that the teenager had been radicalized and was under federal surveillance. Authorities also indicated the individual was planning a terrorist attack for ISIS and intended to target Self during a veterans' chili cook-off scheduled for Oct. 17, an event featuring former Cowboys players and other high-profile guests.
In response to the alleged threat, Self said his security protocols were heightened. "At that point we upped our profile and we're a little more aware," Self said. "Although I had plenty of security. So we did change our situational awareness around us." The congressman noted that his previous combat deployments influenced his calm reaction to the news, unlike colleagues who might have panicked upon learning of an assassination attempt.
Despite the security concerns, Self reported that he attended the planned event on Oct. 17. He stated he participated by judging 19 chilies and three pots of beans, noting that nothing occurred during the gathering. The congressman also indicated that campaign activities, including poll greeting and meeting voters, would continue without interruption. He asserted that the incident would not deter him from discussing political ideology with the American public.
The investigation proceeds as Self faces opposition in the midterm election. In September, the congressman introduced a resolution regarding Sharia law and its implementation in the U.S., stating the Constitution serves as the supreme law of the land. This follows a controversial August vote by the McKinney City Council to approve a mosque expansion site plan, which drew hours of public comment and subsequent recall efforts against council members.
Evan Hunt, Self's opponent in the race for the midterm election, condemned the alleged plot in a social media post. Officials have not publicly released the identity of the teenager while the investigation continues. The FBI Dallas office has not yet provided further comment regarding the matter.
Source: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth
