In a significant judicial decision, Benjamin Song, considered a leader among protesters linked to antifa, received a 100-year prison sentence. The conviction stemmed from a violent protest last year at the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas.
The severe sentences were delivered during separate hearings in Fort Worth’s Federal District Court. Judges Mark T. Pittman and Reed O’Connor reprimanded the defendants for deploying violence and undermining democratic processes during their protest against an immigration facility.
Benjamin Song, along with eight other young demonstrators, were found guilty of participating in an armed assault. This resulted in a police officer sustaining a gunshot wound to the neck. Six individuals found guilty of terrorism charges alongside Song received prison terms ranging from 50 to 70 years. One defendant, who was convicted of lesser charges and wasn’t present at the protest, received a 30-year sentence. Another sentencing is set for next month.
The harsh penalties are notably longer compared to sentences of those involved in the January 6 Capitol riot, marking a stern judicial response toward ICE protesters, particularly those linked to antifa. In contrast, Enrique Tarrio, leader of the Proud Boys, received a 22-year sentence, the longest for a January 6 defendant.
The recent convictions highlight a rigorous legal stance in Texas against ICE protesters. This follows a pattern of crackdowns by the Trump administration on activists opposing federal immigration practices. Last week, 15 individuals allegedly associated with Minnesota antifa groups faced indictments for obstructing federal operations during immigration sweeps over the winter.