Synagogue attack plot foiled in Alabama: 1 arrested, weapons seized, officials say

CLARKE COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) — One person was arrested and weapons were seized after the FBI and other agencies were alerted to threats made against multiple synagogues in Alabama, according to a Clarke County Sheriff’s Office Facebook post.

According to the post, several federal agencies were notified of “credible threats of violence” made against the synagogues in Alabama and nearby states.

Investigators identified a suspect who lived in Needham and got a search warrant for the person’s home.

The 1st Judicial Circuit Special Response Team, made up of deputies and officers from multiple law enforcement agencies, searched the home and discovered a disturbing plan along with a lot of weaponry.

Agents found weapons, more than a suitcase of ammo, body armor, and “other items related to the plans of violence,” the post said.

According to the post, agents learned the suspect had planned to die in the attacks, and indicated they were possibly planning attacks on public officials as well.

The investigation, which is still ongoing, will involve numerous federal agencies, and multiple federal charges are likely, as well as local charges of resisting arrest and certain persons forbidden.

Agencies involved in the operation included the FBI, Clarke County Sheriff’s Office, Choctaw County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Police Department, Grove Hill Police Department, Thomasville Police Department and Butler Police Department.

“Having a local team with such training, capabilities and ability to immediately respond prevented multiple violent acts with minimal incident,” an FBI field agent said.

This story is developing. News 5 will update this article as more information becomes available.