Federal prosecutors charged 21-year-old John Michael Garza Jr. of Midlothian, Texas, with attempting to provide material support to ISIS after an undercover agent documented him bringing bomb-making materials to a Dec. 22 meeting. Authorities say Garza described how to mix explosive components, offered to send an instructional video, and sent small cryptocurrency payments he believed would fund ISIS purchases. The case began after an NYPD officer flagged his pro-ISIS social media activity; officials praise the arrest for preventing potential violence.
Texas Man, 21, Charged After Allegedly Bringing Bomb-Making Materials to Undercover ISIS Meeting
Federal prosecutors say a Texas man was charged after allegedly attempting to provide material support to ISIS through an undercover agent.
Federal prosecutors have charged 21-year-old John Michael Garza Jr. of Midlothian, Texas, with attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State after an undercover operation documented him bringing bomb-making materials to a meeting and offering instructions on explosive assembly.
The DOJ said the suspect offered to explain how to mix explosive components and provide instructional materials.
Details Of The Case
According to the Department of Justice, Garza met on Dec. 22 with an undercover agent who was posing as an "ISIS brother" and arrived with components related to bomb construction. During the meeting, prosecutors say he described how to mix explosive components and offered to send an instructional video demonstrating device assembly. Law enforcement arrested Garza shortly after he left the meeting.
The DOJ said the suspect was charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.
Prosecutors also allege Garza sent small amounts of cryptocurrency to the undercover operative, believing the funds would be used to purchase firearms and other materials for ISIS. Authorities say he shared official ISIS media releases in private chats and followed pro-ISIS social accounts—activity that first drew the attention of an NYPD officer.
FBI Director Kash Patel said the FBI "identified the threat early, tracked it aggressively, and shut it down before anyone was harmed," stressing that protecting the public is the bureau's daily mission.
Former Florida Attorney General Pamela Bondi praised the investigation, calling it a "testament to the incredible work of our federal agents" and warning that anyone who tries to commit violence on ISIS's behalf will be found and prosecuted.
The formal charge alleges Garza attempted to provide material support or resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization. The matter remains under federal investigation and will proceed through the U.S. justice system.
