In Fort Worth, Texas, a former U.S. Marine reservist, Benjamin Song, along with seven others, received lengthy prison sentences for their involvement in a shooting last year that resulted in injuries to a police officer. The incident occurred during a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center near Dallas. Prosecutors labeled the crime as terrorism and linked the defendants to the leftist militant group known as antifa. However, the defense denied any connection to antifa and expressed disbelief at the harsh sentences.
Song, who was found guilty of firing shots during the July 4 protest, received a 100-year prison sentence, the maximum allowed. The other defendants were given sentences ranging from 30 to 70 years. Lydia Koza, whose spouse Autumn Hill was sentenced to 50 years, expressed anger at the government’s decision, stating, “The government wants to take her entire life away because she attended a protest. Nobody died.”
U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor, overseeing the proceedings, described the incident as “an assault on democracy” and emphasized the need for deterrence. The case attracted national attention, with critics cautioning that the outcome could influence free-speech rights and protest activities. It marked the first sentencing of individuals linked to antifa following an executive order by former President Donald Trump, which classified the group as a domestic terrorist organization.
Prosecutors presented evidence suggesting the protesters had nefarious intentions, including the possession of firearms, first aid kits, and body armor. Song’s attorney, Phillip Hayes, refuted these claims, stating his client would appeal the sentence. He argued that the gathering was meant as a peaceful demonstration to support immigrants at Prairieland. Hayes described the participants as having “big hearts” and no intent to cause harm.
Prosecutor Frank Gatto argued for severe penalties, claiming “extremist beliefs” require lengthy imprisonment. Meanwhile, Autumn Hill contended the event felt more like a party, noting she anticipated no violence. Her attorney, Cody Cofer, insisted there was no evidence Hill possessed a weapon or believed in violent protest tactics.
Chris Tolbert, representing Savanna Batten, asserted his client did not bring any weapons or participate in planning the demonstration. Batten also received a 50-year sentence. Daniel Sanchez Estrada, another defendant, was sentenced to 30 years for moving personal belongings that included artwork and writings, though Weinbel, his attorney, confirmed nothing illegal was found.
While several defendants previously pled guilty to providing material support to terrorists, federal prosecutors recently charged additional individuals in Minnesota for impeding immigration enforcement. Accusations involved antifa members allegedly conspiring against the government through actions such as blocking arrests and throwing ice at federal vehicles.
Marcelo contributed reporting from New York alongside Kendria LaFleur from the Associated Press.
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