Trans teen arrested after alleged plot to attack Chicago-area Hindu temple
Police say 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis was detained after a coworker reported a threat, preventing a planned shooting at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois.
Palatine police announced that 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis was arrested on charges of making a terrorist threat and unlawful possession of a weapon after allegedly planning to open fire at a Hindu temple in Aurora, a Chicago suburb. Authorities said Paporakis, who identifies as transgender, was found to have a modified rifle, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, body armor and other tactical gear.
According to the FBI Chicago Field Office, a coworker at a local fast-food restaurant reported a suspicious message from Paporakis, prompting a tip that led police to locate his vehicle near the temple. Surveillance footage captured the suspect entering the temple parking lot before leaving a short time later. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered the weaponry and an eight-page document outlining his extremist views.
"I want to praise and offer my personal, sincerest thanks to the individual who stepped forward in many successful disruptions by law enforcement and potential acts of violence or terrorism attacks," said Lucas Rothaar, acting special agent in charge of the FBI Chicago Field Office.
A Cook County judge ordered Paporakis to be held without bond and placed a healthcare order for his hormone treatment. The suspect is scheduled for a further court appearance on Oct. 30.
The temple issued a statement confirming heightened security measures, including increased armed presence, to protect devotees, employees and volunteers.