Federal authorities say a 19-year-old Ohio man is among five individuals taken into custody in connection with an alleged terror plot that investigators claim included discussions about targeting elected officials from West Virginia.
According to a federal criminal complaint, Tycen Proper of Knox County, Ohio, is accused of participating in online conversations where potential attacks were allegedly discussed through encrypted messaging platforms.
The FBI said it became aware of the alleged plot on June 10 after reviewing communications involving multiple individuals. Investigators claim approximately 23 people participated in Signal chat groups where “pre-operational plans” were discussed.
Authorities were first alerted after Proper’s mother reportedly contacted law enforcement with concerns about her son’s recent behavior and firearm purchases. Responding officers spoke with family members, who said Proper had been communicating with people he met online and had discussed conducting reconnaissance activities.
According to the complaint, investigators discovered camping equipment, body armor, firearms and ammunition connected to Proper. A subsequent review of his cellphone allegedly uncovered conversations on Signal and SimpleX discussing plans with other individuals under investigation.
Federal prosecutors allege that messages sent by Proper included images of several West Virginia elected officials, including U.S. Senators Jim Justice and Shelley Moore Capito, as well as U.S. Representatives Riley Moore and Carol Miller.
Officials said the images also contained information regarding campaign contributions and political affiliations.
Sen. Capito released a statement expressing gratitude to federal and local law enforcement agencies for preventing potential violence and protecting public officials.
Sen. Justice also praised investigators, including the FBI and Department of Justice, for identifying and disrupting the alleged threat before any attack could occur.
Proper remains in custody as the federal investigation continues. Authorities have not announced trial dates, and the allegations remain subject to court proceedings.
