Daijiworld Media Network – Austin

Austin, Oct 1: Texas authorities have foiled an alleged plan to attack the Texas State Capitol after receiving information about a person planning a violent attack on the building, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) said.

According to the DPS, its Criminal Investigations Division worked with the FBI to verify the threat and investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged plan.

At around 3 am on Wednesday, DPS SWAT officers arrested 40-year-old Benny Caldera Jr. at his residence in Converse, around 15 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio.

According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Caldera's friend told investigators that he had made verbal threats to attack the Texas State Capitol. The friend reportedly told officers that Caldera had said he was going to the Capitol and intended to “shoot it up.”

The arrest documents also state that Caldera told his friend he was angry with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and allegedly made a statement about “these people” needing to be exterminated.

Caldera was taken to the Bexar County Jail and charged with felony terroristic threat against a public servant. He was later released on a $75,000 bond.

Court records show that Caldera had previously been charged with unlicensed carrying of a weapon in November 2023.

Texas DPS said state leadership informed legislators about the threat and arrest on Wednesday. The Capitol remains open during regular operating hours.

Authorities said an increased police presence will remain at the Texas Capitol to protect employees, visitors and state officials.