UMVA has learned that eight protesters accused of having ties to the far-left network Antifa were sentenced to decades in federal prison on Tuesday for their roles in a violent July 4, 2025, ambush outside a North Texas immigration detention center.
The sentences were handed down in a case that has been closely watched by the Trump administration, which has made cracking down on far-left militant groups a top priority. The defendants, described as members of a North Texas Antifa cell, were convicted of providing material support to terrorists, rioting, and conspiring to use and carry explosives.
Benjamin Song, a former U.S. Marine Corps reservist who was previously convicted of attempted murder, received the maximum sentence of 100 years behind bars. Song's troubled past includes a conviction for shooting Alvarado Police Lt. Thomas Gross, and prosecutors argued that his actions on July 4, 2025, were a continuation of his violent behavior.
Seven other defendants received prison terms ranging from 30 to 70 years, including Autumn Hill and Savanna Batten, who were each sentenced to 50 years. The lengthy sentences were handed down by U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor, who described the incident not as a protest, but as "an assault on democracy."
During the sentencing, prosecutor Frank Gatto urged the judge to impose stiff penalties, saying the defendants hold extremist beliefs and "believe violence is justified." The defendants and their families have denied any affiliation with Antifa, maintaining that they were demonstrating in support of detained immigrants.
The ambush at the Prairieland ICE detention center was a violent and coordinated attack that involved fireworks, gunfire directed at officers, and damage to vehicles and buildings. Authorities say the defendants' actions were a serious threat to public safety, and that their sentences are a testament to the administration's commitment to cracking down on militant groups.
The case has been a focus for the Trump administration, which has prioritized taking down far-left militant groups. The sentences have been hailed as a major victory for law enforcement, and a warning to others who would engage in similar violent behavior.
Song’s attorney, Phillip Hayes, argued that his client only provided "suppressive fire" and that the police officer was struck by a ricocheted bullet. Hayes said Song has had an impeccable life aside from this incident, and that he intends to appeal the sentence.
