The FBI says a plot to overthrow the Michigan state government and kidnap Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer has been stopped. Officials say a Michigan militia group called the Wolverine Watchmen were behind the plot.
According to a sworn FBI affidavit, an undercover agent attended a June meeting in Ohio, where members discussed overthrowing state governments "that they believed were violating the US Constitution.”
The court filings in the case alleges the conspirators twice conducted surveillance of Whitmer's vacation home and discussed kidnapping her to stand trial for treason before the Presidential election. The group has been threatening action against her for a while over her coronavirus shutdowns in the state.
They allegedly planned to use about "200 men" to attack the Capitol building, take hostages...including the governor.
The head of the Republican party condemned these men. “Threatening the governor’s life or plotting to kidnap her is appalling. Any policy or political differences that people may have with the governor, or any elected official, should be settled at the ballot box. I am grateful the governor and her family were able to stay safe through this shameful act, and I am thankful for the tireless work of our law enforcement who dedicate their lives to protect us all.”
Detroit Free Press reports felony charges against 13 militia members. The suspects called on other members to identify the home addresses of law enforcement officers in order to target them, "made threats of violence to instigate a civil war leading to societal collapse".
Col. Joe Gasper, director of the Michigan State Police, said "This case is one of the largest cases in recent history that the Michigan State Police been involved in. It sends a very vivid reminder that while we may be in period of discourse ... (with) fighting across the nation, law enforcement stands united."
Governor Whitmer said “My husband and I are eternally grateful to everyone who put themselves in harm’s way to keep our family safe.”