FBI Detains McKinney Teen Over Alleged Plot Targeting Congressman
Federal agents arrested a 17-year-old accused of planning an attack at a local event.
By Jacob Leary ·
The FBI arrested a 17-year-old from McKinney on suspicion of plotting to target Rep. Keith Self. The congressman confirmed the details to Wire Authority. Self is a Republican currently seeking his third term to represent Texas' third congressional district. Federal agents took the teenager into custody earlier this month.
Self's campaign manager stated the FBI executed the arrest on Oct. 5. The congressman's office received notification from U.S. Capitol Police on Oct. 6. Investigators told the campaign they believe the teen had been radicalized. Agents were monitoring the individual. They also stated the teen planned a terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS.
The alleged target was a chili cook-off for veterans held on Oct. 17. The event featured former Cowboys players and other guests. In response to the threat, Self increased his security. He stated, 'So at that point we upped our profile and we're a little more aware, although I had plenty of security.' He added, 'So we did change our situational awareness around us.'
Self cited his background in the military for his calm response. He stated, 'I'm happy it happened to me because people that have never dealt with this before tend to freak out.' He noted his wife shares his seriousness. She was a military spouse for 25 years. The congressman confirmed he has faced threats before. However, he said nothing has reached the level of an arrest.
Despite the alleged plot, Self attended the scheduled event. He judged 19 different chilies and three pots of beans. He said nothing occurred during the gathering. Self has not stopped campaigning either. He said he will continue to appear at events to meet voters. He stated, 'This will not deter me from what I think I need to be doing to alert the American people to this political ideology.'
The arrest comes amid public debate regarding Self's political stances. In September, he introduced a resolution opposing the implementation of Sharia law in the United States. His district includes McKinney. The city council approved plans for a mosque expansion in August after hours of public comment. Following the vote, an effort began to recall several council members.
Evan Hunt, Self's opponent in the midterm election, condemned the alleged plot on social media. The teenager's identity has not been released. The investigation remains active.
Source: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth
