Texas Man Charged With International Terrorism After Alleged ISIS Support Sting

A Texas man has been charged with international terrorism after he allegedly gave bomb materials and money to an undercover FBI agent he believed was linked to ISIS. The suspect is John Michael Garza Jr., a 21-year-old from Midlothian, Texas. He was arrested on December 22 during a meeting with the undercover agent. The DOJ said the case began after police flagged his social media activity.The arrest took place after weeks of exchanges between Garza and undercover officers. According to Reuters, investigators said Garza claimed he supported ISIS and shared extremist content online. The DOJ said he also sent cryptocurrency that he believed would be used to support ISIS operations.

Texas Terrorism Case Draws Federal Attention

The case began in mid-October 2025. A New York City Police Department undercover employee saw a social media account that followed pro-ISIS pages. The account also posted a comment under a known ISIS propaganda message. The officer later reached out to the user, who said he was a young Mexican-American man living in Texas.According to federal filings, Garza then began to share ISIS material with the undercover officer. He said he backed the group’s ideology. Officials said he also sent small cryptocurrency payments in November and December. He believed the funds would help buy guns and supplies for ISIS members.The FBI said the key moment came during a December 22 meeting. Garza met an undercover agent he believed was an “ISIS brother.” Officials said he brought materials used to mix explosives. He also explained how to combine the items and said he could provide a bomb‑making video. Agents arrested him after the meeting.According to the DOJ, Garza now faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The FBI said the case shows its commitment to stop threats before they grow. Reuters reported that federal officials called the arrest a warning to others who may try to aid foreign terror groups.

How the Investigation Unfolded and What Comes Next

The investigation relied on digital tracking, social media review, and direct undercover contact. Agents said the suspect showed steady interest in ISIS propaganda. They said he also took steps to offer real-world help, which increased the urgency of the case.Federal agents often use covert online methods to monitor extremist activity. In this case, officials said the online conversations helped show intent. The DOJ said the meeting and delivery of explosive materials provided physical evidence that supported the charge.The case will move to federal court in Texas. Prosecutors will present digital messages, payment records, and audio from the meeting. Defense filings are expected in early 2026. The DOJ said the investigation is ongoing but did not report any other suspects.

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The charges mark another major terrorism case involving social media radicalization. The DOJ said it hopes the arrest sends a signal that any attempt to support ISIS will lead to swift federal action.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: What is the main charge in this case?

The main charge is international terrorism. It is based on allegations that Garza provided materials and money for ISIS support. The DOJ said he believed he was helping a terror member.

Q2: How did authorities find the suspect?

An undercover NYPD employee spotted his social media activity. The account followed pro‑ISIS pages and posted a comment under extremist content. That sparked direct contact and a joint investigation.

Q3: What items did he provide?

Officials said he brought materials used to mix explosives. He also explained how to use them. Agents said he offered a video with bomb instructions.

Q4: What penalties could he face?

If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison. The charge falls under laws for aiding foreign terror groups. Sentencing will depend on the court.

Q5: Why did the FBI step in?

The FBI joined the case because it involved terrorism and interstate activity. The agency often handles threats tied to foreign groups. Officials said they moved fast after seeing signs of active support.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Associated Press, U.S. Department of Justice statements, FBI public releases