DALLAS, TEXAS — Jury selection and opening statements began Tuesday in the federal trial of nine people accused in last year’s shooting outside the Prairieland Detention Center near Dallas, where an Alvarado police officer was wounded.
Federal prosecutors allege the July 4, 2025 incident was carried out by individuals linked to antifa, following President Donald Trump’s order designating the movement as a domestic terrorist organization. Eight of the nine defendants face charges of providing material support to terrorists, along with additional counts that include attempted murder of a law enforcement officer.
Prosecutor Shawn Smith told jurors the demonstration was not peaceful, describing masked individuals dressed in black who allegedly fired fireworks, vandalized property, and opened fire as officers responded. Lt. Thomas Gross testified he was shot in the shoulder, with the bullet exiting his neck.
Defense attorneys argued their clients were participating in a “noise demonstration” supporting immigrants and should be judged only on their individual actions. Attorneys for several defendants denied any affiliation with antifa, describing one defendant’s alleged group as merely a book club.
The trial is expected to last several weeks. If convicted, some defendants could face life in prison.
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