Federal authorities have arrested two additional suspects in connection with an alleged plot to attack U.S. President Donald Trump’s UFC event held at the White House earlier this month, expanding a case that investigators say involved plans to use explosive-laden drones and firearms to target attendees.
According to court documents, William Lee Spartacus Falkner of Belfair, Washington, was arrested on Friday, while 28-year-old Jordan W. Rincker of Missouri was taken into custody on Sunday. Both men have been charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Neither suspect has entered a plea, and legal representation details remain limited.
The arrests come after federal law enforcement agencies disrupted the alleged plot days before the June 14 UFC event held on the White House South Lawn. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said authorities remain committed to identifying and prosecuting individuals accused of planning violence on White House grounds.
Investigators first became aware of the threat on June 10, after the mother of 19-year-old Ohio resident Tycen Proper contacted police with concerns about her son’s recent firearms purchases and online activity. The FBI investigation that followed uncovered communications among approximately 20 individuals allegedly discussing plans to destabilize the government through a coordinated attack.
Court filings indicate the group explored using drones equipped with explosives to target the event before opening fire on attendees as they attempted to flee. Authorities say members of the network exchanged maps, aerial photographs, escape route plans, and discussions about establishing safe houses.
Proper has been charged with firearms-related offences and additional crimes, including the attempted murder of a U.S. officer or employee. His attorney stated that the charges are being taken seriously and will be addressed through the court process.
Federal investigators recovered several high-powered firearms from suspects linked to the case. However, court records suggest the alleged conspirators were still attempting to obtain key equipment, including drones capable of carrying explosives, when the operation was disrupted.
Prosecutors allege that Rincker provided financial support to members of the conspiracy and accepted weapons, a 3D printer, computer equipment, and other materials intended for manufacturing drone components. Rincker reportedly told investigators he had no intention of building drones and only wanted the printer for crafting purposes.
Authorities also claim Falkner communicated with group members about obtaining and operating drones, as well as discussing possible tactics and explosive devices. After news emerged that the plot had been foiled, investigators say Falkner sent messages indicating the operation had been cancelled and referenced the arrests of other suspects.
The case remains under investigation as federal prosecutors continue to examine the extent of the alleged conspiracy and whether additional arrests may follow.
