Two arrested over alleged plot targeting Houston synagogue, authorities say
Raleigh — Two young individuals have been arrested in connection with an alleged plot to attack a synagogue in Houston, with authorities citing plans to drive a vehicle into worshippers in an effort to cause mass casualties, according to law enforcement officials and court documents.
An 18-year-old, Angelina Han Hicks, was taken into custody in North Carolina and charged with conspiracy to commit murder and assault related to members of Congregation Beth Israel, a historic Jewish place of worship in Texas.
A juvenile suspect, identified as 16 years old, was separately arrested in Texas and charged with conspiracy to commit capital murder, authorities said.The Federal Bureau of Investigation said its Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force launched the investigation following a tip received earlier this week.
The Houston Police Department said there was no indication of any ongoing credible threat after the arrests.Court records allege the conspiracy involved plans to “kill as many Jews as possible” by driving through a congregation at a synagogue.
A judge ordered Hicks detained on a $10 million bond, citing concerns over public safety and potential communication with alleged co-conspirators.Authorities said the timeline outlined in warrants pointed to a possible attack in 2028, though prosecutors indicated concerns that the threat could have been more immediate.
Investigators have not publicly disclosed a motive.The synagogue temporarily closed earlier this week as a precaution following warnings from law enforcement but has since reopened, according to community officials. The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston said security remains a priority.
The case comes amid heightened concerns over attacks targeting Jewish institutions. Last month, an armed individual drove a vehicle into a synagogue in Michigan, underscoring growing security challenges faced by such communities.
Hicks’ legal counsel said the case remains at an early stage, with further investigation expected. Her next court appearance is scheduled for May 13.
