A Texas man was arrested Wednesday after officials said they received credible information about an alleged plan to carry out a violent attack at the Texas Capitol. Benny Caldera Jr., 40, was taken into custody at his home in Converse by Texas Department of Public Safety SWAT officers. He was charged with making a terroristic threat against a public servant and later released on $75,000 bond.
The threat was reported Tuesday, with officials saying the alleged attack was planned for Thursday. DPS special agents worked with the FBI and local law enforcement agencies, while state officials were notified and additional security measures were put in place.
Authorities have not disclosed the specific nature of the alleged attack or the information that led to the arrest. The investigation remains active, and officials have not identified any additional suspects.
| 1) | Arrest follows reported Capitol threat |
| 2) | Multi-agency investigation moves quickly |
| 3) | Charges and bond details disclosed |
| 4) | Capitol operations continue with added security |
| 5) | Investigation remains underway |
Arrest follows reported Capitol threat
DPS said it received credible information Tuesday about a person allegedly plotting a violent attack at the state Capitol on Thursday. The information prompted an investigation involving state, federal and local agencies. The alleged target was the Texas Capitol, where legislators, employees and visitors were expected to continue regular activities.
At about 3 a.m. Wednesday, DPS SWAT officers arrested Benny Caldera Jr. at his residence in Converse, a city in Bexar County. Officials described him as the main suspect and transported him to the Bexar County Jail. The public details released so far do not explain how the alleged plan was to be carried out or what specific evidence investigators obtained.
Multi-agency investigation moves quickly
DPS special agents led the investigation with assistance from the FBI and local law enforcement agencies. The agencies coordinated their response after receiving the reported threat, allowing officers to identify and detain the main suspect within hours of the initial information.
Kash Patel, the FBI director, praised the cooperation among the agencies and said law enforcement had acted quickly after receiving the tip.
Threaten Americans or our institutions and law enforcement will move fast.
Officials have not said whether the investigation began with a direct report, online activity or another form of information. They also have not announced whether anyone else may face charges.
Charges and bond details disclosed
Benny Caldera Jr. was charged with the felony offense of making a terroristic threat against a public servant. After being booked into the Bexar County Jail, he was released on $75,000 bond. The available announcement did not provide additional allegations or court dates.
A criminal charge is an accusation, and the case must proceed through the legal system. Authorities have not publicly released the precise language of the alleged threat, the intended method of attack or other evidence connected to the charge.
Capitol operations continue with added security
DPS notified Texas state legislators about the threat and the arrest. The agency said the Capitol remained open during regular operating hours, indicating that officials did not announce a closure or cancellation of normal public operations.
DPS also said it would increase its presence at the Capitol to protect employees, state officials and visitors. The added security was intended to address the reported threat while the investigation continued. Greg Abbott, the Texas governor, thanked DPS for its response and said Texas would not tolerate threats of violence against the Capitol.
Investigation remains underway
The case remains under investigation by DPS and its partner agencies. Officials have not disclosed whether the alleged plan involved other people, whether any weapons or materials were recovered, or what motivated the suspect.
Further information could come through court filings, law enforcement announcements or additional statements from state officials. Until then, the confirmed public developments are the arrest, the felony charge, the $75,000 bond and the continued security presence at the Capitol.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | DPS said it received credible information about an alleged violent attack planned for Thursday. |
| 2 | Benny Caldera Jr. was arrested at his Converse home and charged with making a terroristic threat against a public servant. |
| 3 | The suspect was released on $75,000 bond. |
| 4 | The Capitol remained open, with DPS increasing its security presence. |
Summary
Authorities arrested a Texas man after receiving information about an alleged attack targeting the state Capitol. The arrest followed a rapid response involving DPS, the FBI and local law enforcement. Officials have increased security while withholding details about the alleged plot as the investigation continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested?
Benny Caldera Jr., 40, was arrested at his home in Converse, Texas.
What charge does he face?
He was charged with the felony offense of making a terroristic threat against a public servant.
Was the Texas Capitol closed?
No. DPS said the Capitol remained open during regular operating hours, although the agency increased its security presence.
What is known about the alleged plot?
Officials said the alleged attack was planned for Thursday but have not released details about its intended method, motive or supporting evidence.