Police say a coworker’s tip helped thwart an alleged plan to open fire at a Hindu temple in Aurora, Illinois. Palatine Police said at a Thursday news conference that 19-year-old Alexandros Paporakis, of Palatine, was arrested Sunday in connection with the alleged plot.
What police and prosecutors allege
According to police and prosecutors, Paporakis drove to the Aurora temple armed with a modified rifle, about 300 rounds of ammunition, body armor, and other tactical gear. Authorities said the rifle malfunctioned, Paporakis returned home, searched online for how to clear the jam, and allegedly called a colleague about an intent to carry out a mass shooting.
Palatine Police said coworkers at a Taco Bell reported receiving a suspicious message from Paporakis, which led Mount Prospect Police to obtain a search warrant and detain Paporakis before a return to the scene could occur.
Authorities also said Paporakis identified as a neo-Nazi. Paporakis faces one felony count of making a terrorist threat and one felony count of unlawful possession of a weapon, according to Palatine Police.
Detention and healthcare order
According to NBC Chicago, a Cook County judge ordered Paporakis held without bond and put a jailhouse healthcare order in place, saying Paporakis receives hormone injections for gender transition and is being treated for ADHD, depression, and anxiety.
FBI on the public’s role
At the Thursday press conference, FBI Chicago Field Office acting special agent in charge Lucas Rothaar said, “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. It is a single, courageous member of the public who comes forward to prevent attacks.”
What we don’t know yet
- These are early allegations from police and prosecutors. No plea or defense statement was included in the Fox News report provided.
- Details beyond the NBC Chicago account of the judge’s order were not available in the provided material.
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