Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt reported on October 16, 2025, that the Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed its first terrorism charges against individuals associated with Antifa. Schmitt detailed the events described in the indictment and outlined the charges being brought against the defendants.

According to Schmitt's post on October 16, 2025, "According to the indictment, the Antifa cell used fireworks and graffiti as distractions for the ambush. When police responded, Arnold yelled 'Get to the rifles!' and opened fire with semiautomatic weapons—striking one officer in the neck. The attackers fled after a rifle jammed."

In a subsequent post on the same day, Schmitt stated, "These are the DOJ's first Antifa terrorism charges. We must hold these violent extremists accountable—whether here or abroad. Last week, I wrote to Secretary Rubio to urge him to designate the global Antifa networks as Foreign Terrorist Organizations too."

Further detailing the legal actions, Schmitt posted, "The DOJ is charging the defendants with: • Providing material support to terrorists • Attempted murder of federal officers • Use/discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence" on October 16, 2025.

Senator Eric Schmitt represents Missouri in the United States Senate. The DOJ’s decision to pursue terrorism charges against alleged Antifa members marks a notable development in federal law enforcement’s approach to violent protest groups. The move comes amid ongoing debates over how to classify and respond to acts of politically motivated violence in the United States.