A 32-year-old man is facing a federal conspiracy charge after investigators accused him of participating in an alleged plan to attack government officials and other guests attending a major UFC event at the White House.
Daniel K. Eskridge was among five men arrested during a multi-state law-enforcement operation. Federal prosecutors allege the group discussed using explosive-equipped drones to trigger an evacuation before targeting people leaving the venue with sniper fire.
No attack occurred, and authorities said the alleged plan was disrupted before it could be carried out.
Five Men Charged Following Federal Investigation
The Justice Department announced charges against Eskridge and four other men following arrests in Missouri, Ohio, Nebraska and California.
Authorities identified the other defendants as Tycen C. Proper, Bryan Omar Roa, Michael Alan Thomas and Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez.
The FBI began investigating the potential threat on June 10, several days before the UFC Freedom 250 event took place on the White House grounds.
Prosecutors allege the defendants planned a mass-casualty attack targeting government officials and other prominent attendees. The investigation remains active, and federal authorities have not ruled out further developments.
Encrypted Messages Allegedly Revealed Plans
Court records state that investigators identified Eskridge while examining electronic communications found on another defendant’s phone.
Members of the group allegedly used encrypted social-media platforms to discuss possible targets, including lawmakers, business executives and sections of the national power grid.
In one conversation, Eskridge allegedly described a potential target as someone widely known across the country.
Investigators also claim he shared an image of tactical equipment in May that appeared to include a rifle, helmet and protective vest.
Drones and Sniper Teams Discussed
Prosecutors allege that members of the group later discussed attacking the UFC event using teams consisting of a sniper, a support operative and a drone operator.
Eskridge allegedly encouraged members to contribute money for drones and explosive charges. Court documents claim the proposed operation involved multiple teams positioned around the event.
The alleged objective was to use drones carrying explosives to create panic and force an evacuation. Snipers would then target selected people among the crowd, according to federal authorities.
These claims have not been proven in court.
Weapons Seized During Search
Federal agents executed a search warrant at Eskridge’s residence on June 13.
Authorities said they recovered rifles, a shotgun, a pistol and additional tactical equipment during the search. Prosecutors have not stated that any weapons were transported to the event site.
The FBI and Secret Service worked with other law-enforcement agencies during the investigation. Officials credited the coordinated response with preventing the alleged plan from advancing.
Possible Penalties if Convicted
Eskridge has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder on White House grounds.
Federal officials said defendants convicted of conspiracy to commit murder could face up to life in prison and a fine of as much as $250,000. A separate conspiracy involving violence on White House grounds can carry a maximum five-year sentence.
The exact punishment would depend on the charges resulting in conviction and decisions made by the court.
The charges describe an alleged coordinated plan involving encrypted messages, tactical equipment, drones and firearms. Authorities say the threat was identified and disrupted before the UFC event proceeded.
The investigation is continuing, and all allegations must still be tested through the federal court process. Eskridge and the other defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.