Arrests Made in Alleged UFC Event Plot on White House Lawn

Two additional arrests have been made in connection with a suspected plot targeting an Ultimate Fighting Championship event held on the White House lawn this month. Federal prosecutors reported that William Lee Spartacus Falkner was apprehended in Washington state on Friday, while Jordan W. Rincker was taken into custody in Missouri on Sunday.

These arrests increase the total number of individuals connected to the plot to seven. Fortunately, no attack occurred at the event, and no one was injured. Federal prosecutors allege that the conspirators discussed plans to fly drones carrying explosives over the event and to shoot into the fleeing crowd.

Charges and Allegations

Falkner and Rincker face charges of conspiracy to commit murder, according to the Department of Justice. Falkner, who is trained in drone operation, allegedly discussed using drones with explosives in online communications. Rincker is accused of receiving $1,200 from another arrested individual to distribute to other conspirators. He also reportedly met with this individual in Omaha, where he exchanged a 12-gauge pump shotgun for a ballistic plate, a 3-D printer, and other items.

On Sunday, investigators discovered weapons and equipment at Rincker’s residence and a storage container. The items included two rifles, a 9mm pistol, a 3D-printed Glock-style handgun, a gas mask, ballistic plate, plate carrier, and a shield.

Legal Proceedings

Both Falkner and Rincker have been charged via a criminal complaint, which differs from an indictment by a grand jury. As of Monday, federal court documents did not indicate any pleas entered by Falkner or Rincker. A federal public defender representing Falkner did not respond to requests for comment, and Rincker’s legal representation remains unlisted.

Event Details

The UFC event, named UFC Freedom 250, took place on June 14, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. The White House lawn served as the venue to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. President Trump, top administration officials, and VIP guests including Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg attended the live event.