Senate secretary announces increased security at Texas Capitol
A 40-year-old man was arrested early Wednesday in Converse, Texas, on suspicion of plotting a violent attack at the Texas state Capitol in Austin, the Texas Department of Public Safety said. The agency received what it called “credible information about an individual planning a violent attack” for Thursday in Austin.
The tip came in Tuesday evening, and SWAT officers made the arrest at about 3 a.m. Wednesday at a residence in Converse, a city near San Antonio, according to DPS. The suspect, Benny Caldera Jr, was jailed on a $75,000 bond. Officials said he could face charges including felony terroristic threat against a public servant. Messages were left seeking comment from an attorney listed for Caldera.
Public safety officials notified state lawmakers about the threat and arrest early Wednesday, the agency said. The Capitol remained open during regular operating hours. Texas Senate Secretary Patsy Spaw said in a notice that there will be increased security at the Capitol during the investigation.
Governor Greg Abbott said the state DPS was assisted by the FBI in making the arrest. “Texas will NOT tolerate threats of violence against our Capitol,” Abbott said in a statement on social media.
Officials did not provide details about the alleged plot, citing the ongoing investigation.