Chicago Man Charged with Obstruction in White House UFC Attack Plot

A 20-year-old Chicago resident has been apprehended and charged in connection with a violent scheme that authorities say targeted a "Freedom 250 Ultimate Fighting Championship" (UFC) event planned for the White House. This individual is one of eight suspects from various states who have been indicted in relation to the alleged conspiracy.

According to the indictment, federal investigators contacted the suspect by phone just one day prior to the scheduled White House event to inquire about online threats. When a special agent reportedly asked if the Chicago man intended to travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in the planned assault, he allegedly denied any such intentions and declined to meet with law enforcement officials.

Immediately following this phone call, the individual is accused of uninstalling the Signal messaging application from his mobile device. This action, authorities contend, made crucial message data inaccessible to investigators.

Obstruction of Justice Charges

Due to this alleged attempt to destroy evidence, the Department of Justice has also charged the Chicago man with obstruction of justice. He was taken into custody on Thursday and is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court in Chicago today at 3 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gabriel A. Fuentes. If found guilty, he could face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

Another Suspect Arrested in Ohio

Hours before the Justice Department publicly confirmed the indictment against the Chicago man, officials on Friday morning announced the apprehension of Ohio teenager Tycen Proper, identified as another suspect in the alleged plot. Proper's inventory reportedly included an AR-15 rifle, a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun painted with an American flag, and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, as detailed in criminal complaints and sheriff's office reports.

Beyond firearms, Proper is also accused of amassing extensive tactical and survival equipment. This collection allegedly comprised ballistic plate carriers, a tactical bump helmet, a loaded battle belt, various knives, a hatchet, and specialized medical trauma gear.

The alleged plot was ultimately disrupted after Proper's mother contacted emergency services, reporting her son's online activities and weapons purchases. She informed authorities that she had removed the firearms and ammunition from his room.