LANSING, Mich. — More revelations have come to light about the alleged plans by members of a Michigan-based group that’s facing multiple felony charges, including charges of terrorism, in a conspiracy to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and overthrow the state government.
Tuesday morning FBI Special Agent Richard Trask said during a court hearing for some of the 13 suspects that they also discussed abducting at least one other Democratic governor, Virginia’s Ralph Northam. Trask said that, as with Gov. Whitmer, the men were unhappy about Gov. Northam’s response to COVID-19 and the rules that were put n place to combat the disease.
“They discussed possible targets, taking a sitting governor, specifically issues with the governor of Michigan and Virginia based on the lockdown orders,” Trask told a Grand Rapids federal court.
Trask did not discuss further planning aimed at Northam.
The FBI alerted key members of Northam’s security team throughout the course of its investigation, but neither the governor nor members of his staff were informed, as per security protocols for highly-classified information, said Northam’s spokeswoman, Alena Yarmosky. She said the governor and his family were never believed to be in imminent danger, and that there have been enhanced security measures in place for them for quite a while.
“Here’s the reality: President Trump called upon his supporters to “LIBERATE VIRGINIA” in April — just like Michigan. In fact, the President regularly encourages violence against those who disagree with him. The rhetoric coming out of this White House has serious and potentially deadly consequences. It must stop,” Yarmosky said in a news release.
The defendants face up to life in prison if convicted.
Seven others linked to a paramilitary group called the Wolverine Watchmen were charged in state court for allegedly seeking to storm the Michigan Capitol and providing material support for terrorist acts by seeking a “civil war.”
Want to see more local news ? Visit the FOX47News Website.
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
Download our free app for Appleand Android
and
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox.
Select from these options: Breaking News, Severe Weather, School Closings, Daily Headlines and Daily Forecasts.
