A Mason County man has been charged in federal court after investigators alleged he helped plan a mass-casualty attack targeting government officials during a UFC event held on the White House grounds.
William Lee Spartacus Falkner, of Belfair, was arrested Friday and charged with conspiracy to commit murder, according to the FBI and the Department of Justice.
Federal authorities allege Falkner was part of a multi-state conspiracy that planned to use explosives-laden drones and armed attackers to target attendees at the June 14 UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House.
According to court documents, the FBI’s investigation began after the parents of an Ohio teenager contacted authorities about their son’s firearms purchases and concerning online activity.
Investigators later examined the teen’s phone and allegedly discovered communications outlining plans for an attack on the White House event.
According to the criminal complaint, the group allegedly planned to use drones carrying explosives to create panic and force attendees to flee toward areas where gunmen would be waiting.
President Donald Trump and other federal officials attended the event.
FBI Alleges Washington Man Helped Coordinate Drone Operations
According to the complaint, Falkner communicated with alleged co-conspirators through encrypted messaging platforms and discussed obtaining, manufacturing, and operating drones that could be used in the attack.
Investigators allege Falkner had experience building and flying drones and discussed loading them with explosives and configuring them for maximum impact.
The complaint cites messages exchanged between June 7 and June 11 in which Falkner allegedly discussed drone capabilities, manufacturing options, and logistics.
Federal prosecutors also allege Falkner sought to obtain military-grade artillery shells for use in the planned operation.
Investigators identified Falkner through social media accounts and online communications allegedly linked to his phone number and addresses in Washington and Nevada, according to the complaint.
Court documents state that Falkner and others referred to the planned operation as a “work trip.”
After several alleged co-conspirators were arrested, investigators say Falkner exchanged messages indicating the “work trip” had been canceled.
FBI Says Plot Involved Drones And Armed Attackers
According to court documents, one alleged member of the group told investigators the plan was to attack one side of the event with explosive-equipped drones, causing attendees to flee toward another area where armed attackers would be positioned.
Federal authorities allege the conspiracy involved approximately 19 participants from multiple states.
Investigators say the group discussed escape routes, safe houses, drone manufacturing, weapons procurement, and other logistics.
According to the complaint, one alleged conspirator told investigators the ultimate goal was to create enough chaos to overthrow the US government.
Two More Arrests Announced
The FBI announced Monday that Falkner was one of two additional suspects arrested in connection with the alleged plot.
Jordan Rincker, 28, of St. Joseph, Missouri, was also charged with conspiracy to commit murder.
According to federal prosecutors, Rincker allegedly helped distribute money to co-conspirators, communicated through encrypted messaging applications, and agreed to produce drone parts using a 3D printer.
Investigators executing a search warrant at Rincker’s home and storage unit reported finding firearms, night-vision equipment, body armor, 3D-printed gun parts, drone-related equipment, electronic devices, and other tactical gear, according to court documents.
Officials Call Plot A Serious Threat
“Law enforcement continues to do what it does — move to disrupt and hold accountable those allegedly plotting to do harm on the White House Grounds on June 14,” Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a statement.
FBI Director Kash Patel described the investigation as a multi-state operation that authorities say prevented a potentially deadly attack.
Federal officials said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be possible as investigators continue reviewing evidence.
Conspiracy to commit murder carries a potential sentence of up to life in prison if a defendant is convicted.
Falkner made his initial appearance Monday afternoon in U.S. District Court in Tacoma.
