RismadarVoice Reporters, April 24, 2026
An 18-year-old woman has been charged in the United States over an alleged conspiracy to carry out a deadly attack on a synagogue in Texas, with prosecutors claiming the plan aimed to “kill as many Jews as possible.”
Angelina Han Hicks, from Lexington, was arrested on 22 April and is being held on a $10 million bond following her first court appearance in Davidson County.
She faces felony charges of conspiracy to commit murder and conspiracy to commit assault with a deadly weapon, according to court filings.
Authorities allege that Hicks worked with two unidentified individuals known only as “Angel” and “Teegan” to target Congregation Beth Israel in Houston. Court documents state the plan involved driving a vehicle into worshippers at the synagogue as part of a mass-casualty attack.
Prosecutors say the alleged plot, which they claim was being discussed for a possible execution in 2028, raised serious public safety concerns, particularly as the two alleged co-conspirators remain at large. A judge cited the risk of communication between suspects as a key reason for setting a high bond.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation said it received a tip-off about a potential attack targeting a Jewish school near Houston. The intelligence led to a joint operation involving federal agents and local law enforcement in North Carolina, culminating in Hicks’ arrest. Officials said the swift response may have prevented a possible tragedy.
The targeted campus includes The Shlenker School, an educational institution affiliated with the synagogue. In response to the threat, the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston confirmed that the synagogue temporarily closed as a precaution, while security patrols have been increased around Jewish institutions in the area.
Hicks’ father has strongly denied the allegations, describing the charges as “fabricated” and excessive. In remarks to local media, he suggested his daughter’s actions may have been linked to online activity or “fantasy” scenarios, insisting she posed no real-world threat.
Jewish community leaders have expressed concern over the case, warning it reflects a broader rise in antisemitic threats and the need for heightened vigilance.
Hicks is scheduled to return to court on 13 May as the investigation continues.
