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Federal authorities have announced two additional arrests in the alleged plot to carry out a mass-casualty attack during the UFC Freedom 250 event held at the White House earlier this month, bringing the total number of defendants to seven.
According to newly unsealed federal court documents, William Lee Spartacus Falkner of Belfair, Washington, and Jordan W. Rincker, 28, of Missouri, have each been charged with conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the alleged plot. Both men were arrested over the weekend and are expected to appear in federal court in their respective districts.
The investigation began after the mother of 19-year-old Tycen Proper of Danville, Ohio, contacted law enforcement on June 10, expressing concerns about her son’s recent firearms purchases and online communications. According to investigators, that tip led the FBI to uncover what prosecutors describe as a multi-state conspiracy involving individuals communicating through encrypted messaging applications.
Federal prosecutors allege members of the group planned to fly drones carrying explosive devices over the White House event to force an evacuation before opening fire on fleeing government officials and other attendees. Investigators say the group had discussed the plan for several months, although authorities contend they had not yet obtained all of the equipment necessary to carry it out.
Court records allege Rincker helped provide money and equipment intended for drone construction, while Falkner allegedly offered logistical and tactical support to the operation. Prosecutors say both men became involved through the same online network as the previously charged defendants.
Proper remains in federal custody after waiving his detention hearing. He was among the first five people charged in the case and faces multiple federal counts, including conspiracy, attempted murder of a federal officer, and firearms-related offenses. He has retained attorney Joseph Patituce of Strongsville to represent him. Proper has not entered a guilty plea and, like the other defendants, is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The U.S. Department of Justice says the investigation remains active, and officials have indicated additional charges are possible as investigators continue reviewing electronic evidence and communications recovered during the multi-state investigation.
